• Iran threatens to close the Strait of Hormuz in response to fresh attacks, according to state-run Press TV.
  • The strait is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, and a closure could trigger oil price spikes.
  • Tensions remain high as Iran says it would strike enemy targets at a ratio of at least two-to-one.

Iran has escalated its rhetoric over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, signaling it could close the waterway if it faces new attacks, according to a report from Press TV. The outlet also quoted Iranian officials as vowing to retaliate against any enemy strikes at a ratio of at least two-to-one, raising the stakes in an already tense region.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage through which about 20% of the world's oil passes, making it a key pressure point in global energy markets. Any disruption would likely send crude prices soaring, with knock-on effects for inflation and supply chains worldwide. Traders are already on edge, watching for signs of actual military escalation.

The threat comes amid ongoing tensions linked to attacks on shipping and U.S.-led sanctions against Iran. In recent months, there have been several incidents involving vessels near the strait, fueling concerns about freedom of navigation. International actors, including the United States and its allies, have called for restraint and emphasized the importance of keeping the waterway open, but diplomatic efforts have yet to produce a breakthrough.

“Iran’s threat to close the strait is a classic leverage play,” said a regional security analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity. “They know how dependent the global economy is on that chokepoint, and they’re using it to deter any military action against them.”

Repeated attempts to reach the Iranian mission to the United Nations for comment were unsuccessful.

Historically, Iran has made similar threats during periods of heightened tension, such as during the Iran-Iraq war and in 2018-2019 when the U.S. reimposed sanctions. While Tehran has never fully closed the strait, it has been accused of harassing commercial vessels and disrupting traffic, actions that have prompted international naval patrols.

For now, markets are watching for any sign that the rhetoric could turn into action. Even a partial or temporary disruption would have outsized economic effects, given the lack of alternative routes for Gulf oil exports. The situation remains fluid, and analysts caution that any miscalculation could lead to a rapid escalation.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the ratio mentioned in the Press TV report. It has been corrected to reflect that Iran said it would strike at a ratio of at least two-to-one.