Iran quickly reversed its decision to open the Strait of Hormuz
Just one day after announcing that the strait was open to commercial traffic, the country closed the important maritime passage again.
At least three ships attempting to cross the region reported being hit by gunfire.
The measure was taken in response to the blockade imposed by the United States on Iranian ports.
On Friday, the Iranian Foreign Minister had declared that the strait was completely open, following the ceasefire reached in Lebanon.
On Saturday, however, Iran announced a return to strict control of the area by its Armed Forces.
A convoy of eight oil tankers managed to pass shortly before the new closure.
Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that the country’s Navy is ready to inflict “new bitter defeats” on its enemies.
Iranian authorities criticized the United States, saying that Washington cannot impose a blockade on Iran while the country tries to facilitate the safe passage of ships.
On the American side, President Donald Trump reacted firmly.
He said that Iran “tried to be clever” by wanting to close the strait again, but that this would not work as blackmail.
Trump also stated that the blockade of Iranian ports will continue and that, if there is no lasting agreement by the end of the ceasefire, the bombings may resume.
Despite the tension, the American president expressed optimism regarding a possible peace agreement with Iran, including the removal of enriched uranium from nuclear facilities.
Meanwhile, Egypt, Turkey, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia are working together on a security arrangement for the Middle East, aiming to prevent another war and ensure the stability of energy markets, supply chains, and food security.
Published in 04/18/2026 20h30
Text adapted by AI (Grok) and translated via Google API in the English version. Images from public image libraries or credits in the caption.
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