Reactions and statements from the international community
The Islamic Republic of Iran announced via VHF radio on January 15, 2026, that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to all vessels of any nationality due to the United States' failure to meet commitments.
Tankor Trakkers claims to have obtained a 31-second audio file of a conversation between a ship's crew and the IRGC Navy, in which the crew expresses anxiety over being fired upon despite having received passage permission and being on the authorized list, requesting permission to change course and return.
India's Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that two Indian-flagged ships carrying crude oil were targeted by Iranian military forces while passing through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. The UKMTO reported that a cargo vessel near Omani waters was also hit by an unknown projectile, damaging some containers but causing no fire.
A terrorist cell that violated ceasefire agreements in southern Lebanon and approached IDF forces threateningly was eliminated by air strikes. In a separate incident, the IDF attacked terrorists entering an underground shaft in the same area.
Citizens of Borujerd took to the streets from December 8 to December 9, 2025 (17 to 19 Dey in the Iranian calendar) to participate in the national revolution but faced severe repression. Reports indicate that recent attacks by the United States and Israel in Borujerd resulted in the destruction of local repression centers, including the police command headquarters, Basij, and IRGC facilities.
India summoned the Islamic Republic of Iran's ambassador in New Delhi on Saturday to express deep concern over reports that two Indian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz were forced to alter course and return after encountering gunfire from IRGC forces. The Indian Foreign Secretary urged Tehran to resume facilitating safe passage for vessels bound for India through the strait.
President Donald Trump of the United States criticized the Islamic Republic of Iran for closing the Strait of Hormuz, calling Tehran's actions "mischievous" and an attempt at extortion.
President Donald Trump warned Iran against "extortion" after Tehran closed the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the U.S. would take a hard stance. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps subsequently fired upon two ships attempting to navigate the closed strait.
India summoned the Iranian Ambassador to protest after IRGC gunboats fired on the Indian-flagged oil tanker The Sanmar Harald as it passed through the Strait of Hormuz today while transporting Iraqi oil to India.
IRGC forces in the Strait of Hormuz shot at two Indian vessels and a UK Maritime Trade Operations organization reported that a recreational cruise ship near Oman's coast, three nautical miles east, had an object strike the water near it. Ships have been advised to report any suspicious activity following these incidents.
The Islamic Republic News Network announced that transit and passage through the Strait of Hormuz must be conducted under the control and authorization of the Iranian Armed Forces, with vessels required to obtain passage certificates and pay fees for security and environmental protection services.
Iran has broadcast a message to ships around the Strait of Hormuz declaring the waterway "completely closed" due to the U.S. government's failure to fulfill commitments in negotiations.
