Iran Warns of Strait of Hormuz Closure Amid US-Israel Strikes; Shipping Disruptions Reported

Following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran, vessels in the Gulf have received radio warnings from Iran's Revolutionary Guard stating that passage through the Strait of Hormuz is not allowed, though Iran has not formally confirmed a closure. The strait, a critical maritime chokepoint through which about 20% of global oil and LNG supplies transit, has seen tanker movements halt or reroute amid rising tensions. Several ships, including Pakistani vessels, have been blocked or delayed, and attacks on tankers have been reported. Shipping firms and insurers have suspended operations or raised war-risk premiums, while global energy markets brace for potential disruptions. Authorities caution that such broadcasts are not legally binding, but the situation remains volatile with risks of further escalation in the region.