Iran War Updates: IRGC Says Hormuz Closed Until US Blockade Lifted

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint for global energy trade. The IRGC has issued warnings, launched attacks on merchant ships, and laid sea mines in the strait, prompting major shipping firms to suspend operations. The crisis has significant implications for global energy security. The Iranian government, led by Ebrahim Raisi, has vowed to defend its territorial integrity and sovereignty. The US and its allies have imposed economic sanctions on Iran, which has responded by increasing its military presence in the region.