Iran Claims Strait of Hormuz Closed to US and Israel Amid Escalating Tensions

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on March 14, 2026, that the Strait of Hormuz is open to all countries except the United States and Israel, describing it as closed only to 'tankers and ships' of those nations. This declaration effectively threatens global oil supplies, as nearly a fifth of global oil trade passes through this narrow passage. The move signals Iran's intent to use the choke point as a weapon against its adversaries.