US Military Rejects Iran's Strait of Hormuz Closure Claim, Cites Ongoing Maritime Traffic

The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) has refuted Iran's assertion that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. CENTCOM spokesman Captain Tim Hawkins affirmed that international maritime traffic through the strategic waterway remains active and is under continuous US observation.

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Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz.

"Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz," Hawkins stated, emphasizing that US forces are monitoring the situation to ensure the continued freedom of navigation. This response came after Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced the closure, citing alleged US breaches of commitments and Israeli violations of a ceasefire in Lebanon.

CENTCOM reported that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is intact, with 55 merchant vessels recently transiting the waterway. These vessels carried over 17 million barrels of oil and other cargo destined for global markets. The Pentagon referred inquiries to CENTCOM, which reiterated that US forces are "present and vigilant" to ensure compliance with agreements.

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US forces were monitoring developments to ensure freedom of navigation continues.

The divergent claims from Tehran and Washington have amplified uncertainty surrounding the status of one of the world's most crucial energy shipping routes. A significant portion of global oil supplies passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making its stability vital for international markets.

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safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz remained 'intact,' reporting that 55 merchant vessels had recently transited the waterway while carrying more than 17 million barrels of oil and other cargo to global markets.