Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to Iran’s enemies as the conflict with Israel and the United States enters its sixteenth day, according to Al Jazeera. Araghchi stated that after fifteen days of war, opposing nations are now seeking help from other countries to ensure the security of the strategic waterway.

He emphasized that while Iran considers the strait open, it is closed to those who have carried out what he described as cowardly aggression against Iran and to their allies. Araghchi also claimed that the war began with attacks by the United States and Israel, who had demanded Iran’s unconditional surrender.

The statement underscores heightened regional tensions and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy shipments, as the conflict continues without signs of de-escalation.