Iran Announces Closure of Strait of Hormuz Following U.S. Strikes; Washington Denies Claim

Welat TV - Erbil

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all types of vessels, describing the move as a direct response to recent U.S. military strikes. The United States, however, swiftly rejected the announcement, insisting that maritime traffic through the strategic waterway continues uninterrupted.

In a statement issued early Thursday, June 11, 2026, Khatam al-Anbiyaa Headquarters, the body responsible for coordinating military operations within the Iranian armed forces, said the closure applies to all vessels, including oil tankers and commercial ships. It warned that any attempt to transit the strait would be met with live fire.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that the closure would remain in effect “until further notice,” justifying the measure by citing what it described as repeated U.S. violations of the ceasefire agreement.

U.S.: Strait Closure Claim Is “False”

In response, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) dismissed the Iranian announcement, stating that “the IRGC’s claims regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are false.” CENTCOM stressed that maritime navigation through the strategic waterway remains fully operational and that commercial shipping continues without disruption.

The escalation comes after CENTCOM announced on Wednesday that U.S. forces had carried out a new series of strikes against targets inside Iran. In its statement, the command described the operations as “additional defensive strikes.” The conflicting claims highlight the growing tensions between Washington and Tehran amid ongoing military exchanges and increasing concerns over the security of one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.