Tehran — In a dramatic escalation of Middle East tensions, Iran has effectively shut down the critical Strait of Hormuz, halting oil tanker movements in response to Israeli strikes on Lebanon, according to state-linked reports.
The move sends shockwaves through global markets, as the narrow waterway—responsible for a significant share of the world’s oil supply—has once again become the epicenter of a rapidly intensifying conflict.
Iranian authorities warned that only vessels with prior approval may pass, raising fears of a full-scale maritime blockade and potential confrontation in one of the world’s most sensitive النفط corridors.
The shutdown comes just hours after fragile ceasefire efforts involving the United States appeared to ease tensions, only for fresh violence in Lebanon to derail the truce and push the region back to the brink.
Global leaders are now scrambling to prevent a wider crisis, with urgent diplomatic efforts underway to reopen the vital shipping route and stabilize energy flows.
As the standoff deepens, analysts warn the latest development could trigger soaring oil prices, disrupt international trade, and ignite a broader geopolitical showdown across the Middle East.
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