Iran reimposes Hormuz closure hours after reopening

Iran has once again declared the Strait of Hormuz closed, just hours after briefly reopening the crucial shipping lane, heightening uncertainty in global energy markets and casting doubt over ongoing peace efforts.

Iranian military authorities announced on Saturday that control over the strait had been reasserted under strict supervision of the armed forces, citing the continued US naval blockade as the primary reason for the renewed closure. The move came despite earlier indications that the waterway had been reopened following a ceasefire agreement linked to the wider regional conflict.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes, had seen a brief resumption of traffic. However, maritime tracking data showed confusion among vessels, with several ships attempting to pass through the narrow channel while others abruptly reversed course due to uncertainty over safety conditions.

Some ships were observed navigating close to Iranian territorial waters as directed by Tehran, while others reportedly signalled neutral affiliations such as India or China. At least two tankers heading east after loading in UAE ports turned back mid-journey.

The latest developments come amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, as Washington continues enforcing a naval blockade on Iranian ports.

US President Donald Trump had earlier expressed optimism about a potential agreement to end the conflict, describing talks as being “very close” to success.

Efforts to broker peace are being led by Pakistan, with its military chief Field Marshal Asim Munir recently concluding a visit to Iran. Parallel diplomatic engagements have also taken place with regional powers including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye. A new round of negotiations is expected in Islamabad in the coming days.

Despite the ceasefire holding for now, key issues remain unresolved, including Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium and the status of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have firmly rejected any proposal to transfer uranium abroad.

Meanwhile, Iran has reopened parts of its airspace for international transit, though widespread internet restrictions inside the country remain in place for a prolonged period.