Iran rejects US’ Strait of Hormuz shipping ‘traffic is flowing’ claim, insists it remains closed

Published 12 July 2026 · world

Iran has reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to maritime traffic, directly contradicting the US Central Command's (CENTCOM) assertion that shipping is moving

Iran has reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to maritime traffic, directly contradicting the US Central Command's (CENTCOM) assertion that shipping is moving normally through the strategic waterway. The latest exchange marks a sharp escalation in the war of words between Tehran and Washington over one of the world's most critical oil transit routes. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), Iran's official maritime body responsible for regulating transit through the Strait of Hormuz, said the passage has been closed because of what it described as the "recent illegal movements" of US military forces in the region. Quick answers to key questions • 5 QUESTIONS 1 Why is Iran claiming the Strait of Hormuz is closed? ⌵ Iran claims the Strait of Hormuz is closed due to 'recent illegal movements' of US military forces in the region, asserting it will reopen only when regional stability is restored. 2 How can vessels obtain a transit permit for the Strait of Hormuz from Iran? ⌵ Vessels can obtain a transit permit for the Strait of Hormuz through Iran's official maritime body, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), by applying via their website at 3 What are the implications of the US Central Command stating that traffic is flowing through the Strait of Hormuz? ⌵ By stating traffic is flowing, the US Central Command suggests that the Strait is open for international shipping, countering Iran's claims and emphasizing its military presence to ensure freedom of navigation. 4 What led to the escalation of tensions between the US and Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz? ⌵ Tensions escalated after Iran allegedly attacked a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to US military strikes on Iranian military targets in response. 5 Should countries be concerned about potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz?

⌵ Yes, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could significantly affect global energy markets, as it is a critical transit route for about one-fifth of the world's oil and natural gas. The authority said vessels would only be allowed to pass with a transit permit issued by the PGSA once regional stability returns. "We hereby inform all esteemed applicants. Due to the recent illegal movements of the United States military forces in the region, passage through the Strait of Hormuz is currently not possible." The authority added: "As soon as stability and calm are restored, all requests will be reviewed based on the schedule, and the necessary permits will be issued." PGSA also said transit permits could only be obtained through its official website. "The only way to obtain a transit permit is through the website We appreciate your patience and cooperation." CENTCOM: 'Iran does not control the Strait' Iran's statement came shortly after the US Central Command rejected Tehran's claims and insisted that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping. In a post on X, CENTCOM said US forces are deployed to safeguard freedom of navigation despite what it called Iranian threats and harassment. "The Strait of Hormuz is open to all vessels seeking to lawfully transit the international waterway." CENTCOM added that American forces are ready to ensure maritime security. "U.S. forces are positioned and prepared to ensure that freedom of navigation remains available despite unwarranted Iranian aggression, harassment, threats, and arbitrary declarations." It also dismissed Iran's authority over the strategic waterway. "Iran does not control the strait. Traffic is flowing." Warning against further military action The IRGC Navy also warned the United States and its allies against using the closure of the waterway as justification for further military operations against Iran. "Should the aggressor enemy exploit this development...