Iran Makes Threat Over Key World Oil Supply Route

Iran's armed forces have warned that they could shut down the Strait of Hormuz if ordered by top officials, a move that would disrupt global oil trade.

The warning came as tens of thousands of Iranians took to the streets to mark the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the first such rally since President Donald Trump returned to the White House and revived his "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran.

Newsweek has reached out to the White House for comment via email.

Why It Matters

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway for global energy markets, handling about 20 percent of the world's oil trade. Any disruption could trigger a surge in oil prices and escalate tensions between Iran and Western nations. Trump's renewed sanctions and Iran's threat add to longstanding geopolitical friction in the region.

What to Know

Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy, stated on Sunday that Iran has the ability to close the Strait of Hormuz if instructed.

"We have the capability to close the Strait of Hormuz," he said, adding that the final decision rests with "high-ranking officials."

The threat follows a history of similar warnings from Tehran, including in 2018 after the U.S. withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal. In April last year, Tangsiri also suggested that Iran could block the strait as tensions with Israel increased.

U.S. Tightens Economic Pressure on Iran

Trump signed an order on Tuesday seeking to cut Iran's oil exports to zero, while also saying he wanted to work towards a nuclear deal. The directive is part of broader economic sanctions reimposed after Trump's withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Trump later warned that he would prefer to make a deal with Iran rather than "bombing the hell out of it," adding that Israel would not carry out a strike if there were an agreement.

Meanwhile on Monday, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian gave a speech marking the 46th anniversary of Iran's revolution. Addressing a large crowd, Pezeshkian said that the Islamic Republic is committed to resisting all "plots" against the nation.

What People Are Saying

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated: "Although we are not seeking war, the enemy has been intent on creating conflict from day one."

U.S. President Donald Trump said: "I would like a deal done with Iran on non-nuclear. I would prefer that to bombing the hell out of it."

Trita Parsi, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, told Newsweek: "Given the lack of trust, particularly with Trump having pulled out of the JCPOA, it is very difficult for the Iranians to give Trump the benefit of the doubt, even though he is sending clear verbal signals that he wants negotiations and is not looking for war or regime change."

What Happens Next

With U.S. sanctions tightening, Iran's response remains uncertain. The Iranian Supreme Leader's recent remarks sent a strong signal that negotiations with the U.S. remain unlikely but he stopped short of totally rejecting talks, leaving the door open for the possibility of diplomatic engagement.