Washington, D.C (US), June 21, 2026, BNN Web Staff: The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has pushed back against Iran’s assertion that it has effectively closed the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, stressing that the Islamic Republic does not control the key maritime passage despite heightened tensions in West Asia.
The statement came after Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that the Strait of Hormuz had been shut to maritime traffic following Israeli military strikes in Lebanon.
Tehran described the strikes as a breach of a ceasefire arrangement and accused both Israel and the United States of violating commitments linked to regional de-escalation efforts.
Speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic, a CENTCOM spokesperson said Iran does not possess authority over the international waterway and reaffirmed that US forces are actively monitoring developments in the area. The spokesperson emphasized that ensuring freedom of navigation and safeguarding commercial shipping routes remain top priorities for American forces operating in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, serving as a crucial route for the transport of global oil and natural gas supplies. Any disruption to traffic through the narrow passage has the potential to impact international energy markets and global trade.
Earlier on Saturday, Iran’s state broadcaster reported that the IRGC Navy had issued a warning to vessels, declaring the strait closed and cautioning ships against approaching the area. The Iranian military body linked the move to what it described as Israeli aggression in Lebanon and alleged failures by Washington to uphold commitments related to ceasefire arrangements.
In its statement, the IRGC claimed the closure was a response to ongoing developments in Lebanon and warned that vessels entering the area could face security risks. The announcement raised concerns among international observers over the possibility of further instability in one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.
Despite Iran’s declaration, CENTCOM maintained that efforts are continuing to ensure uninterrupted maritime movement through the region. The command reiterated its commitment to protecting commercial shipping and preserving stability along critical sea lanes.
The latest exchange of statements underscores growing uncertainty across West Asia as tensions involving Iran, Israel and regional security arrangements continue to intensify.
