Iran has the capability to close the vital Strait of Hormuz but currently has no intention to do so, according to Alireza Tangsiri, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) naval forces.
According to international news sources, Tangsiri made these remarks in an interview with Lebanon’s Al-Mayadeen TV channel, stating, “If we want, we could close this waterway, but we do not do that… It is because as long as we use this waterway and this strait, our neighbors should use it as well.”
Tangsiri highlighted concerns about the presence of Israel and the United States in the region, describing them as threats to Tehran. He stressed that the security of the region and the Strait of Hormuz is a shared responsibility.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil transit, with over 85 oil tankers and ships passing through daily. Iran’s ability to control or restrict traffic through this strait has significant implications for global energy supplies.
The closing of the Strait could bring great strain to maritime trade in the area and the global supply chain, much like the case of Suez Canal diversions due to Red Sea attacks by Houthis.
