Iran keeps Strait of Hormuz closed after US oil transit operation

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following a major US military operation to protect crude oil shipments through the strategic passage. Supported by naval, air, and satellite forces, the US mission included strikes against Iranian positions on Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched naval mines to maintain their blockade of the waterway.

Iranian officials reiterated that the strait will not reopen to commercial traffic until Washington fulfills several conditions. Tehran is demanding an end to US petroleum sanctions, the unblocking of Iranian ports, the release of frozen assets, and a complete cessation of military threats. Before the onset of hostilities, roughly 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait daily.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)