At least two commercial vessels were reportedly hit by gunfire on Saturday while attempting to pass through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to maritime security sources, shortly after Iran announced it was tightening control over the vital route; several ships reportedly received radio warnings believed to be from the Iranian Navy stating the waterway was closed and no transit would be allowed, although earlier tracking data showed a convoy of eight oil tankers had successfully crossed in one of the first major movements since the U.S.-Israel conflict involving Iran began weeks ago; Iran later reimposed strict military control over the narrow passage, which previously handled nearly 20% of global oil supply, raising concerns over global energy markets, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned the navy is ready to inflict “new and severe defeats” on its enemies, heightening fears of further escalation in the Middle East.
Defiant message from Iran as vessels attempting to cross Hormuz report gunfire
