Iran vows to keep Strait of Hormuz closed following US oil escort operation

Following a major U.S. operation to escort millions of barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has reasserted that the strategic waterway will remain closed until Washington meets specific conditions. Tehran stated that the route will not reopen until the United States lifts port blockades, revokes crude sanctions, unfreezes Iranian financial assets, and ceases all military operations across all fronts.

The U.S. mission, which utilized air, naval, and space assets, coincided with American strikes targeting Iranian positions on Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched naval mines to reinforce their blockade. Observers warn that the intensifying confrontation between both nations significantly elevates the risk of further regional escalation as each side seeks to exert pressure.

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