Iran temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz for several hours on Tuesday, according to the country’s state media. The closure was described as a partial shutdown of one of the world’s most critical oil export routes. It remains unclear whether the strait has fully resumed normal operations following the temporary restriction.

State media reported that the measure was taken to ensure the safety of maritime traffic during a military exercise conducted by Iran’s elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in the area. The drills coincided with the temporary closure, which officials characterized as a precautionary step.

The Strait of Hormuz holds major strategic importance for global trade and energy supply, as a significant portion of Middle Eastern oil exports pass through this narrow waterway to reach international markets.