‘Iran does not control Strait of Hormuz’: US rejects closure claim, says shipping continues

The United States has said that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping, just hours after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that it had closed the strategic waterway. The US said commercial ships are moving normally through the strait and that global trade has not stopped.

In a statement, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the Strait of Hormuz is “open to all vessels” that are using the route legally. It also said that ship traffic is continuing without interruption despite Iran’s recent statements.

CENTCOM added that US forces are deployed in the region and are ready to ensure freedom of navigation. According to the US, Iran does not have the authority to block or control this international waterway.

Why the Strait of Hormuz is important

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes. A large share of the world’s crude oil and energy supplies passes through this narrow waterway every day. Any disruption in the area can affect global oil prices and international trade.

US shares shipping data

The US Central Command said its forces have helped ensure the safe passage of more than 800 ships and over 400 million barrels of crude oil during the past two months.

It also said that more than 140 ships have passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the last seven days, showing that commercial traffic is continuing despite rising tensions in the region.

Read Also: Modi govt masterstroke to boost India’s defence sector: Private companies to enter missile manufacturing, top names include….