Iran Restricts Hormuz Strait Access as Trump Issues 48-Hour Ultimatum

Iranian officials announced Sunday that the vital Strait of Hormuz waterway will remain accessible to most maritime traffic, except for vessels connected to nations Iran considers adversaries. The statement comes after President Trump demanded the strategic shipping route be fully reopened within 48 hours or face potential military action against Iranian infrastructure.

Iranian officials declared Sunday that the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz will continue allowing passage for most maritime vessels, with the exception of ships connected to countries Tehran considers hostile nations, following President Donald Trump’s ultimatum demanding complete access to the waterway within two days.

The ongoing conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has created significant risks for commercial shipping, causing most vessels to avoid the critical passageway that handles approximately 20 percent of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas transportation, raising concerns about potential global energy supply disruptions.

Iranian U.N. maritime representative Ali Mousavi announced Tehran’s willingness to work alongside the International Maritime Organisation to enhance maritime security and safeguard sailors operating in the Gulf region. He explained that vessels not associated with hostile nations could navigate the strait by establishing proper security and safety protocols with Iranian authorities.

“Diplomacy remains Iran’s priority. However, a complete cessation of aggression as well as mutual trust and confidence are more important,” Mousavi stated, attributing the current Strait of Hormuz crisis to ongoing military actions by Israeli and American forces against Iran.