Iran Holds Hormuz Line As US Unleashes Fresh Economic Pressure
Iran has maintained its restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz despite fresh US sanctions aimed at intensifying economic pressure on Tehran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the new measures, targeting Iran’s shipping, aviation, gold, technology and digital-asset sectors while warning countries doing business with Tehran that they could face sanctions.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, however, said the country would not allow military vessels through the strategic waterway and insisted that Washington must first lift its blockade and fulfil its commitments.
The standoff has severely disrupted shipping through Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and gas supplies. Only five commodity vessels reportedly transited the strait on Tuesday, well below the 10-day average of 15.
Meanwhile, Iran and Oman have resumed talks on a temporary navigation corridor, including plans to clear mines and establish mechanisms for managing future traffic through the waterway.
Credit: AFP
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