Iran warns will fire at ships trying to pass Strait of Hormuz

Tehran: Iran has officially announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that any vessel attempting to pass through the waterway will face destruction.

Brigadier General Ebrahim Jabbari, advisor to the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), declared that “any ship attempting to pass through Hormuz will burn.” He further stated that Iran would prevent oil exports from the region, adding, “Not one drop of oil will be allowed to leave.”

Jabbari also warned that oil pipelines could become targets and predicted oil prices may surge to $200 per barrel in the coming days if tensions continue to escalate.

Oil Markets React

Global oil markets were already under pressure due to escalating regional conflict. Since the recent aggression against Iran, Brent crude climbed roughly 10–13%, reaching between $80 and $82 per barrel. Investors fear prolonged hostilities could severely disrupt shipments through the strategically vital strait.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, with a significant portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through it daily.

LNG Disruptions and Gas Price Spike

Qatar’s state-run energy company announced it has suspended liquefied natural gas (LNG) production after Iranian drone strikes reportedly targeted facilities at two major processing sites.

As a result, the Dutch TTF, Europe’s main gas price benchmark, surged nearly 45%, rising above €46 ($54).

Nearly all LNG exports from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates transit through the Strait of Hormuz, leaving limited alternative routes after the passage was restricted.

Global Energy Impact

Energy analysts warn that any sustained disruption could have severe consequences for global markets. A prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz would affect oil and gas supplies to Asia, Europe, and beyond, potentially driving inflation and economic instability worldwide.

Iranian officials maintain that the measures are part of a defensive response to ongoing regional aggression, while global markets continue to monitor developments closely.