Strait of Hormuz threat level remains serious as Iran announces closure

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has warned that the maritime security threat level in the Strait of Hormuz continues to be classified as "serious". Despite Iran’s claim that it has closed the strait and will defend it with force, the agency says the southern route remains usable and is being expanded for two‑way traffic. Ships are advised to stay in radio contact with naval forces, be cautious of mine‑danger zones and, optionally, coordinate with the Naval Co‑ordination and Guidance System (NCAGS).

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared the end of "one‑sided deals" and affirmed that Iran will not tolerate unilateral agreements, reinforcing the closure stance. Iranian security spokesman Ibrahim Rızaı warned that Iran seized control of the strait with force and will continue to protect it accordingly. The escalating US‑Iran hostilities have disrupted vessel movements, prompting market speculation about oil supply continuity and the likelihood that normal traffic will resume by the end of August.

Analysts note that any prolonged disruption could affect global oil shipments, given that roughly 20 % of world oil passes through the waterway, and heightened tension could reverberate across energy markets.