Tehran claims authority over the critical oil chokepoint after UAE reports vessel attacks and US reaffirms strategic dominance.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps declared the Strait of Hormuz under its exclusive control, countering US assertions of dominance over the key oil transit route. A senior IRGC official stated no vessel could pass without Tehran’s permission, following UAE allegations of Iranian attacks on two ships in the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz, handling about 20% of global oil flows, has been a flashpoint amid rising regional tensions. Earlier, US Vice President JD Vance expressed confidence in US strength over Iran, particularly regarding nuclear proliferation and fuel price stability.
Oil markets showed muted reaction, with WTI crude edging up 0.18% to $81.50 amid mixed risk sentiment.