Iran vows Strait of Hormuz will stay closed despite major US operation

Tensions in the Middle East have heightened following the largest United States military operation in the Strait of Hormuz since hostilities began. Utilizing naval, air, and space assets, American forces escorted millions of barrels of crude oil through the strategic waterway during nighttime maneuvers. In response, Iranian forces deployed sea mines via rockets into the passage, prompting retaliatory American strikes against military targets on Larak Island.

Tehran announced that the strait "will not be opened" until Washington complies with conditions in a recent memorandum, including ending port blockades, lifting petroleum sanctions, unfreezing assets, and stopping military operations. Prior to the war, roughly 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the waterway daily. Analysts warn both sides are attempting to maximize leverage, increasing the risk of wider regional conflict.

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