United States President Donald Trump has ordered restrictions preventing Iranian ships from accessing the Strait of Hormuz, marking a major escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Under the directive, Iranian vessels and ships travelling to or from Iranian ports will be denied passage through the strategic waterway without authorisation from the United States.
The move is expected to be enforced by the US military, which may intercept, redirect or detain vessels that attempt to cross the area in violation of the restriction.
Trump said the action was necessary to protect international shipping and prevent Iran from controlling movement through one of the world’s most important maritime routes.
The restriction specifically targets Iranian ships and vessels linked to Iranian ports. Commercial ships serving other countries are expected to continue using the Strait under US protection.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for global oil and gas exports. Any disruption involving Iranian vessels could affect energy supplies, increase shipping costs and place additional pressure on global markets.
Iran has rejected US efforts to control access to the waterway and insists that it retains authority over maritime activities within its territorial waters.
The development raises concerns about possible confrontation between Iranian forces and the US military, especially if Iranian ships attempt to defy the restriction.
International shipping companies and energy markets are now monitoring the situation closely as both countries maintain opposing positions over control and access to the Strait.
