[Breaking] The naval forces of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical transit route for global crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), "until further notice."

In a statement issued on Saturday, the IRGC Navy declared that "the closure will be maintained until the United States ends its involvement in the region." It explained that the decision was a measure taken in consideration of the deteriorating regional security situation caused by the illegal intervention of foreign powers.

The statement warned that "no vessel may transit the strait," making clear its policy to control commercial vessels and oil tankers passing through the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, serving as a key shipping route for crude oil and LNG produced by major Middle Eastern oil-producing countries destined for global markets. An actual halt in vessel traffic could deliver a significant shock to the international energy supply chain.

Markets are closely watching whether this announcement will put upward pressure on international oil prices, shipping freight rates, and vessel insurance premiums. Analysts suggest that if concerns over disruptions to crude oil and natural gas supplies escalate, volatility in global prices and financial markets could increase in tandem.

However, the extent to which the IRGC's closure declaration is being enforced on the water, and whether civilian vessel operations have been completely suspended, require further verification.

The level of the U.S. response is also cited as a key variable in the future course of events. If the United States takes military action under the pretext of securing freedom of navigation, it is difficult to rule out the possibility of further escalation in clashes between Iran and the United States. On the other hand, if diplomatic negotiations or movements to ease military tensions emerge, there is also a possibility that the closure measures could be lifted early.

The international community is closely watching Iran's follow-up announcements, the U.S. response, and vessel navigation conditions near the Strait of Hormuz.

[This article was written with the assistance of AI.]