Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday that they now control the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes, warning that any vessel attempting to pass through the waterway risks damage from missiles or stray drones. The declaration marks a sharp escalation in tensions in the Gulf and raises fresh concerns about global oil supply disruptions and the security of international maritime trade.
Strategic waterway at the centre of global energy trade
The Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as one of the most important chokepoints in global energy markets. Roughly one fifth of the world’s daily oil consumption passes through the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
Major energy producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Iran rely heavily on the strait to export crude oil and liquefied natural gas to global markets. As a result, any disruption to shipping traffic through the channel can rapidly affect global energy prices and financial markets.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the strait was currently under the “complete control” of the Islamic Republic’s navy and warned that ships attempting to transit the passage face the risk of being struck by missiles or drones amid ongoing military operations in the region.
Escalation linked to wider regional conflict
The latest warning comes as the conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel continues to intensify. Military strikes and retaliatory attacks across the region have already targeted energy infrastructure and shipping lanes, heightening fears of a broader disruption to international trade.
The current crisis in the Strait of Hormuz began in late February following major strikes against Iranian targets. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks across the region and began warning vessels not to pass through the strait.
Since then, maritime traffic has dropped sharply, with many tanker operators and shipping companies avoiding the area due to security risks. Insurance providers have also raised risk premiums for vessels entering the region, further discouraging transit through the waterway.
Impact on shipping and energy markets
The potential closure or disruption of the Strait of Hormuz carries significant implications for global markets. Because the route is so central to the movement of crude oil and natural gas, even temporary interruptions can push energy prices higher and increase volatility in financial markets.
Recent attacks on vessels in the area have already caused damage to tankers and forced many shipping companies to delay or reroute cargo. Industry analysts warn that if the current tensions continue, the reduction in maritime traffic could place additional pressure on global energy supply chains.
Energy traders and policymakers are therefore closely monitoring developments in the Gulf, as the stability of the strait plays a crucial role in maintaining the steady flow of energy resources to international markets.
Global powers consider response
Western governments have indicated that naval forces may be deployed to help secure shipping routes and escort oil tankers through the region if the situation deteriorates further. The United States has signalled that it is prepared to protect maritime navigation in the Gulf, a move that could lead to further military confrontation.
At the same time, diplomatic efforts are ongoing to prevent the crisis from escalating into a wider regional conflict that could severely disrupt global trade and energy supplies.
For now, the warning from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards underscores the fragile security environment in the Gulf and highlights the growing risks facing one of the world’s most strategically important maritime corridors.
Newshub Editorial in Middle East — March 4, 2026
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