New Delhi: Iran and America have come face to face over the Strait of Hormuz. Citing American military activities, Iran has announced to stop the movement of ships through this important sea route. US President Donald Trump claims that Hormuz is completely open and commercial ships are operating normally. The different statements of both have increased confusion in the Gulf region. The tension in this area, which is sensitive in terms of oil supply, has increased the concern of the global market.
What did Iran say?
Iran’s maritime department PGSA said that due to the actions of the US military in the area, the movement of ships from Hormuz is not possible at the moment. According to the department, ships will be allowed to move ahead only when the conditions become better.
PGSA also clarified that permits to pass through Hormuz will be available only through its official website. Iran considers this sea route as a bigger weapon for its security than the nuclear bomb. For him, Hormuz is not just a route, but the biggest means of creating pressure.
America and Trump’s answer
Immediately after Iran’s announcement, US Central Command CENTCOM rejected the claim. The US Army said on social media that Hormuz is an international sea route, no single country can close it. According to him, the movement of merchant ships is normal and American forces are already deployed for security.
Trump also said in an NBC show that Hormuz is open to commercial ships. He assured markets around the world that movement through this route is continuing. Military officials said Iran’s claims of having control over foreign ships are false. Hormuz does not come under the control of any one country and movement here will continue under international law.
Tension increased due to missile attack
This dispute has come at a time when the military conflict between Iran and America is at its peak. Iran fired missiles and drones towards Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and UAE, targeting American bases.
According to Qatar, its air defense shot down several missiles in the air, but three people were injured by falling debris. Oman and Jordan also confirmed the attack on their territory. In response, the US Army claimed to destroy more than 300 Iranian targets within 3 days.
Why is the world eyeing Hormuz?
Hormuz is one of the busiest sea lanes in the world. Before the dispute, about 20 percent of the world’s crude oil and a large amount of LNG passed through this route. If movement stops here, there will be a direct impact on the global supply chain. Shipping will come to a halt and prices of petrol and diesel may increase rapidly. For this reason, both markets and governments are keeping an eye on this path.
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