Iran has issued a stark warning about potential disruptions to global oil trade as tensions with the US escalate over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared Saturday that the vital waterway "will not remain open" if Washington continues its naval blockade, raising alarms about energy security worldwide. 🌍
War of Words Escalates
The clash intensified after former US President Donald Trump claimed Iran had agreed to nuclear deal terms – accusations Tehran called "entirely false." Qalibaf fired back on X: "They didn't win with lies in war, they won't in negotiations either." Iranian officials flatly denied proposals to transfer enriched uranium abroad. 💥
Military Posturing Intensifies
Iran's Revolutionary Guard warned it would maintain strict control of the strait unless the US ensures free navigation for Iranian vessels. A military spokesperson stated control had "returned to its previous state" under armed forces management, accusing Washington of maritime "plunder." ⚓
Real-World Impacts Emerge
The UK reported a tanker was fired upon near Oman by boats linked to Iran's IRGC, though no casualties occurred. Shipping data shows 10 vessels aborted Hormuz transits Saturday – a potential preview of disruptions to come. 📉 With 20% of global oil passing through this chokepoint, the stakes couldn't be higher for energy markets.
