Iran Threatens Full Closure of Hormuz Strait Following Attack on Energy Facilities

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran has warned that the Strait of Hormuz will be completely closed if there is an attack from the United States. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that the Strait of Hormuz is not currently closed, but the behavior of the US and Israel has disrupted maritime traffic in the route.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump had issued a warning on March 21 that if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened within 48 hours, power plants would be destroyed.

According to a statement released by Iranian media, the IRGC declared, “If there is an attack on Iran’s energy facilities, the Strait of Hormuz will be closed until the destroyed power plants are rebuilt.” The Strait of Hormuz, which connects Iran to the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea, is the only maritime route linking these bodies of water. About 20 percent of the world’s petroleum products pass through this vital passage. Following attacks by the US and Israel, Iran has effectively blocked this route, causing supply disruptions and increasing global oil prices.

The IRGC also stated, “We will target power plants, energy sites, and IT infrastructure in Israel extensively. All American companies will be targeted.” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized, “The Strait of Hormuz is not closed. Insurance companies that cover oil tankers have become fearful of the so-called ‘war of choice,’ which was initiated by the US and Israel, not Iran.”

Araghchi further added, “Respect this. Without freedom of trade, freedom of passage through maritime routes has no meaning. Both sides must show respect; otherwise, no one should expect anything in return.” More than 160 people were injured near Israel’s nuclear facility at Dimona due to Iranian missile strikes. Since the Israeli air force launched an attack on Iran on February 28 with US support, Iran has reportedly launched around 400 missiles in retaliation.