Iran reinstates restrictions on Strait of Hormuz after US blockade stance

Cairo: Iran has swiftly reversed its earlier position on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, reimposing restrictions on the key maritime route on Saturday. The move followed comments from the United States indicating that its blockade would not be lifted.

The decision marks a renewed tightening of control over one of the world’s most strategically sensitive waterways.

Military command asserts renewed control

Iran’s joint military command stated on Saturday that it had re-established firm control over the passage.

It said the situation had changed back to a tightly managed framework under military authority. The command stated that it "control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state ... under strict management and control of the armed forces."

It further warned that transit through the strait would continue to be blocked for as long as the US blockade on Iranian ports remained in place.

The statement did not provide additional operational details, but underscored that restrictions would remain active in response to external measures.

US maintains blockade position

The development came shortly after US President Donald Trump reiterated Washington’s position on the issue.

Speaking a day earlier, he said the American blockade "will remain in full force" until Tehran reaches an agreement with the United States.

He also linked any potential resolution to broader negotiations, including Iran’s nuclear programme.

The exchange of positions comes amid continued tension over maritime access and sanctions-related restrictions affecting Iranian ports and regional shipping routes.