New Delhi: Tensions in West Asia have escalated significantly once again. While the US is launching attacks targeting Iran, Iran has destabilised the situation in the Gulf region. Iran is firing upon US airbases located in Gulf nations, rendering the situation extremely precarious. Meanwhile, Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a move that threatens to disrupt global import-export connectivity.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that the Strait of Hormuz would remain completely closed until further notice. This implies that global crude oil prices could skyrocket, likely impacting petrol and diesel prices for the common citizen. Iran stated that no vessel would be permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz until the US ceases its interference in the region.
IRGC sets conditions for the US
According to Iranian media, the IRGC stated that the decision to close the Strait of Hormuz was made in light of current security conditions and the illegal interference of foreign powers. The statement confirmed that the Strait would remain fully closed until further notice, with no vessels allowed to traverse the waterway until the US ends its intervention in West Asia.
US launches third wave of attacks
There appears to be no scope for rapprochement between the US and Iran at present, as President Donald Trump has already ruled out such possibilities. US Central Command shared this information on the social media platform X.
US forces have also initiated a third round of military strikes against Iran this week. According to CENTCOM, this action follows an attack by the IRGC on the Cyprus-flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy. The US reported that the vessel was attacked while passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Donald Trump issues a stern warning
US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Iran. He delivered a strong message while issuing this warning. Donald Trump claimed on the social media platform Truth that if any alleged plot to assassinate him were attempted, the United States would launch a massive military strike. He further stated that US missiles are fully ready and possess the capability to completely devastate various parts of Iran if necessary.
All Eyes on the Strait of Hormuz
It is worth noting that the Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most critical maritime trade routes. Vast quantities of global crude oil and gas pass through this passage. Any closure of this route severely disrupts the supply chain. If, for any reason, this waterway were to remain closed for an extended period, the demand for crude oil in the international energy market could surge significantly. This would, in turn, drive up inflation in other countries. It remains to be seen what the next moves of the US and Iran will be amidst the escalating tensions.
