Iran Re-closes Strait of Hormuz as Military Tensions Threaten Global Energy Supplies

Iran has officially re-imposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, stating that transit restrictions will remain in place until the U.S. naval blockade is lifted. Reports indicate that Iranian Revolutionary Guard units fired warning shots at a commercial oil tanker and a container ship, significantly escalating maritime risks. Despite the heightened military friction, President Trump expressed optimism that a deal with Iran remains possible. The closure of this critical chokepoint has already triggered a sharp decline in shipping volumes and a spike in maritime insurance premiums. As the world's most vital artery for oil exports, the blockade represents a major supply-side shock to global energy markets. Investors are pivoting toward safe-haven assets such as Gold (XAU/USD) as geopolitical uncertainty intensifies across the Middle East.