Iran has announced the re-closure of the Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels, stating any ship approaching the waterway will be targeted. This action follows reports of Iranian gunboats firing on a tanker and a container ship being hit by an unknown projectile near the strait on Saturday.
The Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) cited a continuing US blockade for the decision. The IRGC Navy warned that "no vessel is to move from its anchorage in the Persian Gulf or the Sea of Oman" and that approaching the strait would be considered an act of aggression.
President Donald Trump stated Iran cannot "blackmail" the US over the waterway, which has been a point of contention. Reports indicate several vessels were attacked as they attempted to cross, prompting India to summon the Iranian ambassador over concerns for its flagged ships.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas is transported. Its closure has historically caused global energy prices to surge.