Iran seals Strait of Hormuz again following US attacks; entry of ships blocked…

New Delhi. Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated once again. Iran’s top joint military command announced on Thursday the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran warned that any vessel—including oil tankers and commercial ships—attempting to pass through this strategic waterway would be attacked.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital maritime trade routes, through which a significant portion of the global oil supply passes. Consequently, Iran’s announcement has heightened concerns in international markets and the energy sector. Meanwhile, according to Iranian media and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, two ships “violating regulations” while attempting to traverse the Strait of Hormuz have been targeted.

Why did Trump issue this warning to Iran following the Apache attack?
However, shortly after Iran’s claim, the US military refuted it. US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the Strait of Hormuz has not been completely closed and that no successful attacks have been carried out against US naval vessels.

Where did attacks take place in Iran today?
Meanwhile, Iranian media has reported multiple explosions in the southern parts of the country. According to the state news agency IRNA, explosions occurred on Qeshm and Hengam islands due to the impact of projectiles. Several explosions were also heard near the airport and airbase in Bandar Abbas. Mehr News Agency reported explosions at the port of Kangan, while Press TV stated that the Sirik area had been targeted by “enemy projectiles.”

According to reports, skirmishes have also taken place between US and Iranian forces at sea. CENTCOM stated that it launched “self-defense strikes” against several targets in Iran starting at 5:15 PM US time. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that, acting on President Donald Trump’s orders, the US is targeting “key military facilities.”

Iran Issues Stern Warning to the US
Meanwhile, Iran has also issued a stern warning. According to the Tasnim News Agency, the Iranian military is fully prepared, and if the US undertakes any further aggressive action, it will face a “severe response.” Citing military sources, the agency reported that Iran could launch fresh attacks on US interests and bases.

Amidst the escalating tension, the situation in Bahrain also appeared to deteriorate. Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior confirmed that air raid sirens had sounded across the country. Earlier, Iranian state media had claimed that Iran targeted the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain in retaliation for the US strikes. However, no reports of damage had emerged at the time of writing.