Iran refuses to reopen Strait of Hormuz following major US oil transit

The United States has conducted its largest crude oil transport operation through the Strait of Hormuz since conflict erupted six months ago. Utilizing maritime, air, and space assets, U.S. forces escorted millions of barrels of oil through the strategic waterway under cover of night.

In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines, triggering U.S. military strikes against targets on Iran's Larak Island. Iranian officials subsequently stated that the strait will remain closed until Washington fulfills key demands, including lifting port blockades, removing petroleum sanctions, unfreezing assets, and halting military operations across all fronts. Prior to the conflict, approximately 20 million barrels of crude transited the passage daily.

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