Iran Shuts Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Middle East Tensions

Kathmandu – Following a renewed escalation after a brief ceasefire between the United States and Iran, Iran has completely closed the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz for oil shipments. This move comes in response to Israel’s heavy attacks in Lebanon, forcing oil tankers to turn back midway.According to Iran’s state media Press TV, numerous tankers attempting to exit the Gulf are now forced to remain within the Persian Gulf. Earlier, after the two-week ceasefire agreed on Tuesday, two ships—the Greek bulk carrier NJ Earth and the Liberian-flagged Daytona—had successfully passed the strait on Wednesday morning, as reported by marine traffic data.However, following Israel’s large-scale airstrikes in Lebanon that killed at least 254 people, tensions sharply escalated. Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency reported that in protest, Iran has halted all tanker movements through the Strait of Hormuz.Shipping analytics firm Kepler reported that as of Tuesday, over 1,000 vessels, including 187 oil tankers, were waiting to pass through the strait. Under normal circumstances, it would take more than two weeks for all vessels to exit. Meanwhile, Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization issued a safe navigation chart on Wednesday, advising ships to strictly follow designated routes to avoid risks from potential underwater explosives. Given that a significant portion of global oil supply passes through this waterway, the closure is expected to have serious implications for international oil markets and supply chains.