Tensions have escalated between the United States and Iran over control of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump said the United States has “full control” over the waterway, while Iran rejected the assertion and said the strait remains under its control and management.

Iran effectively closed the strait after US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28 and the collapse of a ceasefire. Previously, nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas moved through the route. The United States then imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ships and ports. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the US Navy could sustain the blockade for a long period if necessary.

Iranian military officials said no commercial vessel or oil tanker could pass safely through Hormuz without Iranian permission and oversight. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi called the US position a major miscalculation. Iran also reported oil reaching the southern coast of Qeshm Island, preliminarily blaming a foreign bulk carrier and urging strait users to help restore the damaged environment. Pakistan called at the UN Security Council for safe international navigation and protection of seafarers.