Iran Claims Closure of Strait of Hormuz, Warns of Attacks on Passing Ships

As the conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States entered its fourth day, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that it has shut down the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil shipping route. According to an IRGC official speaking on state television, any vessel attempting to pass through the strait would be intercepted and could potentially be targeted. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime passages, through which a significant portion of global oil supply is transported. Notably, nearly 50% of India’s oil imports pass through this route. However, conflicting reports have emerged regarding the status of the waterway. A report by Fox News, citing the US Central Command, stated that despite Iranian claims, the Strait of Hormuz has not been closed. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera reported that the United States and Israel have jointly carried out strikes on more than 1,000 locations across Iran. Over 2,000 bombs were reportedly dropped within the first 30 hours of the operation. The conflict, which began on February 28, has already resulted in significant casualties. So far, 742 people, including 176 children, have been killed, while more than 750 others have been injured. On the first day of the fighting, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in a bombing. Additionally, three American soldiers were reported dead on Sunday.