The situation around the Strait of Hormuz continues to escalate. On Wednesday, Iran announced that it attacked 20 vessels attempting to pass through the strategically important maritime corridor, while simultaneously expanding the no-sailing zone beyond the strait itself. According to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), two American vessels, eight oil tankers, and ten ships that Tehran claims did not comply with its demands were targeted. The statement was disseminated by Iranian state media. At the same time, the IRGC announced for the first time that certain areas of the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea are now part of the "no-go zone." The exact coordinates will be published later by Iranian authorities. IRGC representative Hossein Mohebi warned that any vessel entering this area without authorization would face "sanctions." He did not specify what these measures would entail. For global shipping, this means an increased risk when navigating one of the world's most important maritime routes. A significant portion of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through the Strait of Hormuz, so any restrictions quickly impact the energy market. Amid the new attacks, oil prices have risen above $100 per barrel again. Iran has been blocking the Strait of Hormuz for several months, while the U.S. has responded with a maritime blockade of Iranian ports. The ongoing danger to civilian shipping has also been reported by the British organization for maritime trade coordination (UKMTO). According to them, several vessels in the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf were damaged as a result of shelling and became unfit for further operation. The military confrontation has also affected neighboring countries. The IRGC stated that it struck an American military base in Jordan, calling it a response to the destruction of five Iranian oil tankers by American forces the day before. In turn, the Jordanian army reported that it intercepted 18 missiles fired at the country's territory. Thus, the conflict is gradually extending beyond the Strait of Hormuz, encompassing new areas of the Middle East and creating additional risks for international shipping and the global energy market.
