IRGC Warns Strait of Hormuz Will Remain Closed Until US Attacks Cease

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Wednesday that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States ceases attacks on the Islamic Republic, according to Iranian state media. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with about 20% of the world's petroleum passing through it daily. This threat escalates ongoing tensions between Iran and the US, which have included recent military strikes and sanctions. The IRGC's statement signals a potential disruption to energy markets, as any closure could spike oil prices and strain global supply chains. No specific timeline or evidence of an actual blockade was provided, but the rhetoric alone has historically moved markets.

Global Impact

Economically, a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz would spike global oil prices by 20-30%, triggering inflationary pressures and potentially recessionary conditions in import-dependent economies like India, Japan, and South Korea. Geopolitically, this escalates US-Iran tensions, risking a broader regional conflict involving Gulf states and maritime security forces.