Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic and fired upon commercial tankers on Saturday, April 18. Tehran officialy stated that this move responds to the ongoing naval blockade imposed by the United States. Initial reports indicate that while at least one vessel sustained damage, no crew members were injured during the attacks.
This was reported by Axios.
U.S. and British officials confirmed multiple strikes on merchant ships throughout the day. According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the incidents occurred approximately 20 nautical miles off the coast of Oman. Furthermore, Reuters informed that at least two commercial vessels came under fire while attempting to cross the strategic waterway. One of the targeted tankers was carrying Iraqi crude oil destined for India.
Impact on diplomacy and regional stability
Iranian military officials emphasized that the strait will remain under tight control until the U.S. guarantees complete freedom of navigation for all vessels. U.S. Central Command confirmed that 23 ships have already turned around to avoid the dangerous area since the blockade began. This sudden escalation threatens to derail upcoming peace talks between Washington and Tehran. Consequently, diplomats fear that these hostilities will undermine efforts to reach a final nuclear and security agreement.
The situation remains critical as Iranian fast boats, linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, continue to monitor the channel. The White House has not yet issued a formal response to the latest military actions. Market experts warn that a prolonged closure of this vital maritime route will significantly impact global energy security. Because the strait serves as a primary corridor for global oil exports, any disruption causes immediate economic pressure.
Previously, The Ukrainian Review reported that the UK and France call summit: restoring navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
