Iran Targets Commercial Ships In Gulf; Hormuz Closed To Most Non-Iranian Vessels

Iran has begun targeting commercial ships across the Gulf in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes, effectively shutting the Strait of Hormuz to most non-Iranian vessels amid the escalating war. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued VHF warnings and confirmed the partial closure on March 2, 2026, following Operation Epic Fury that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, prompting missile barrages on U.S. bases and Gulf allies.

At least eight commercial vessels faced attacks between February 28 and March 2, including the U.S.-flagged Stena Imperative struck at Bahrain's port and the Athe Nova hit by drones, resulting in fatalities and injuries. Shipping traffic plummeted 70-97%, with 150+ tankers anchored; Iran planted naval mines, drawing U.S. President Donald Trump's demand for clearance and strikes on 16 minelayers. Though not a formal blockade, GPS jamming, drone threats, and IRGC vows to "set ablaze" intruders created an insurance-driven halt.

The strait, handling 20% of global oil, narrows to 33 km, amplifying disruptions to exports from Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq, and Iran itself, which halted its flows. UNCTAD warns of fertilizer shortages sparking food crises in Asia and Africa, while Asia bears the brunt of energy shocks. Iran clarified no indefinite closure intent but reserves announcement rights.​

Also Read: Trump Warns Iran: Any Move on Strait of Hormuz Will Mean End of The Country

U.S. Central Command reports ongoing Iranian UAV and missile launches exceeding 1,000, targeting Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Oman. Commercial operators withdrew, stranding cargoes amid unpredictable strikes across flag states.​

Experts predict partial reopening in 2-3 weeks if de-escalation occurs, as Iran cannot sustain escalation economically. The crisis, rooted in U.S.-Israel actions destabilizing Tehran's leadership, fulfills long-standing Iranian threats while risking global trade collapse.

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