Iran has escalated its stance by declaring a full shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz with immediate effect.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that “no one will pass through Hormuz if we cannot,” signaling a hardened position.

Iranian military authorities ordered all vessels in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman to remain at their current positions, warning that any ship attempting to approach the strait will be treated as hostile.

Under the directive, vessels moving toward the area risk being classified as cooperating with the enemy and could face immediate military action.

The move effectively locks down one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.