Tensions escalate as Tehran accuses Washington of piracy, reverses brief reopening of key global oil route amid ongoing military and diplomatic standoff

Iran has once again tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz, reversing its brief reopening of the vital shipping corridor and intensifying its war of words with the United States over maritime operations in the region.

The decision came less than 24 hours after Tehran had allowed vessels to resume passage through the narrow but crucial waterway, which handles a significant share of global oil shipments.

A spokesman for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbia central headquarters accused the United States of engaging in “piracy” and “sea robbery,” alleging that Washington’s naval actions under the guise of a blockade had forced Tehran to reinstate restrictions.

The United States had earlier announced a naval blockade of the strait. Following Iran’s initial reopening on Friday, former US President Donald Trump stated that the blockade would remain in effect “until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete.”

Despite the heightened tensions, both sides are reportedly engaged in ongoing discussions aimed at reaching a longer-term peace arrangement, with a ceasefire still holding.

In a statement released on Saturday, an Iranian military spokesperson said the US move effectively nullified Tehran’s earlier decision to reopen the passage.

“As a result, control over the Strait of Hormuz has been returned to its previous state, and this strategic waterway is under strict management and control by the Armed Forces,” the statement said, according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency.

The spokesperson further warned that until the United States lifts restrictions on maritime movement to and from Iran, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain under strict control and unchanged from its previous posture.

The renewed restrictions underscore the fragility of the current ceasefire and highlight the Strait of Hormuz’s continued role as one of the world’s most sensitive geopolitical chokepoints.