Iran's Revolutionary Guard declared on Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to ships belonging to the United States, Israel, European countries and other Western allies.
In a public statement, a Revolutionary Guard spokesman said that Iran has the right to control passage through this strategic sea route in times of war.
"We had previously stated that, based on international laws and resolutions, in times of war the Islamic Republic of Iran has the right to control the passage through the Strait of Hormuz. If ships belonging to the United States, Israel, Europe and their supporters are spotted, they will definitely be hit," the spokesman said.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world's most important shipping lanes for oil and gas, as a large portion of global energy exports pass through it. The latest statement by Iranian authorities is expected to increase tensions in the region and concerns about the security of maritime traffic.
