A Turkish vessel has received approval to transit the Strait of Hormuz, even as the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran continues to disrupt one of the world’s busiest energy corridors. The move comes amid mounting tensions following Iran’s shutdown of the strait earlier this month, which left numerous ships stranded.
Speaking to reporters ahead of a parliamentary group meeting, Turkish Transport Minister Adil Uraloglu confirmed that authorities were in touch with crews of Turkish-owned vessels. “There are 15 Turkish-owned ships in the Strait of Hormuz. We are in contact with all their personnel,” he said. “They are at a waiting point. Their only difficulty is being there; otherwise, there is no problem in meeting their needs.”
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic waterway that handles roughly 20 million barrels of oil per day and about 20 percent of global liquefied natural gas shipments. Iran reportedly closed the strait around March 1, effectively halting commercial and energy-related movements amid escalating hostilities in the region.
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In his first public statement since taking office, Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei asserted that the strait must remain closed to strengthen leverage against the United States. His remarks, read on state television, also warned that regional attacks would continue if US military bases remain active in the area.
Khamenei pledged retaliation for casualties suffered during the conflict, stating that Iran would seek compensation from its adversaries. “A limited amount of this revenge has so far taken concrete form, but until it is fully achieved, this case will remain among our priorities,” he said, emphasizing the country’s ongoing commitment to its military objectives.
The development underscores the precarious state of maritime navigation in the Gulf amid the conflict, highlighting the global stakes tied to energy security. International observers warn that any prolonged closure of the strait could significantly disrupt oil and gas markets, affecting economies far beyond the Middle East.
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