Iran moves to close Strait of Hormuz after US strikes on nuclear sites

Iranian state media announced Sunday that the Iranian parliament has approved a motion to shut down the strategic Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil shipping lanes, in response to US military strikes on multiple nuclear sites inside Iran. The decision now awaits final approval from the Supreme National Security Council.

The move marks a dramatic escalation in regional tensions following the latest phase of direct confrontation between Iran and “Israel,” which has intensified since June 13. What began as a series of aerial attacks quickly evolved into a full-blown military escalation involving the United States.

What is the Strait of Hormuz?

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, serving as the primary gateway for oil exports from the Gulf region. Located between Iran to the north and Oman and the UAE to the south, the narrow waterway connects the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea. Roughly 20% of global oil supply, over 17 million barrels per day, passes through this strategic strait, making it vital to international energy markets.

Iran has frequently used the Strait of Hormuz as leverage in geopolitical confrontations, threatening to block or disrupt shipping in response to sanctions or military action.

The strait has seen numerous incidents over the years, including tanker seizures, naval standoffs, and drone activity. A closure or even a partial disruption of the strait would have severe global economic consequences, likely triggering a spike in oil prices and raising the risk of broader military escalation.

United States joins the fight

Earlier on Sunday, US President Donald Trump confirmed that American forces carried out what he described as a “very successful attack” on three Iranian nuclear facilities: Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. In a post on his Truth Social platform, President Trump revealed that a “full payload of BOMBS” had been dropped on the underground Fordo site, one of Iran’s most fortified nuclear facilities.

The strikes came just two days after Trump had signaled a possible two-week window for diplomacy. His sudden change in course has further destabilized the region and raised fears of a broader conflict in the Gulf.

“All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors,” Trump wrote, calling the operation a “historic” moment for the United States, “Israel,” and the world. He later declared in a televised address from the White House that “IRAN MUST NOW AGREE TO END THIS WAR.”

Iran comments

In response, Iranian officials insisted that there was no immediate threat to civilians living near the affected nuclear sites. “There is no danger to the people living on the outskirts of our nuclear areas,” said government spokeswoman Fatemeh Mohajerani on state TV. “The people of Natanz, Isfahan, and Fordo can continue their lives.”

The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz would pose a major threat to global energy markets and could draw a wider international response. Experts warn that if implemented, the closure would not only escalate the conflict but could also trigger economic and security shocks far beyond the region.

As of now, international calls for de-escalation continue, but the situation remains fluid, with the region teetering on the edge of a broader war.

Military analysts suggest that Iran’s decision to prepare such a move signals its intent to retaliate strategically rather than immediately escalate militarily. However, with regional powers on high alert and the US and “Israeli” militaries continuing their operations, the risk of further confrontation remains high.