The threats by Iran\u2019s Revolutionary Guard to close the Strait of Hormuz have topped the headlines in international and Arab newspapers, in a clear indication of escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington amid a sensitive round of nuclear negotiations coinciding with a military buildup in the Persian Gulf region.<\/p>\n
According to Bahrain\u2019s Al Bilad newspaper, the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard\u2019s naval forces, Ali Reza Tangsiri, confirmed that the forces are ready to take control of the Strait of Hormuz<\/a> or close it \u201cas soon as possible\u201d if the higher orders are issued, in a direct threat that could change the rules of the game in the region.<\/p>\n These statements coincided with the conclusion of military exercises called \u201cSmart Control of the Strait of Hormuz,\u201d which began two days ago under the supervision of the Revolutionary Guard Command, in what appears to be a practical preparation for possible confrontation scenarios.<\/p>\n At the same time, Iran<\/a> issued navigational warnings and closed parts of its airspace to conduct missile drills on Thursday, further escalating the military messages<\/a> emanating from Tehran, according to Al Jazeera Net.<\/p>\n The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important waterways, with approximately 20% of the world’s seaborne oil exports passing through it, in addition to gas shipments and international trade. Therefore, any threat of its closure\u2014even partial or temporary\u2014carries far-reaching economic and political consequences.<\/p>\n The Iranian threat comes at a time of increasing tension in relations between Tehran and Washington, amid a round of indirect negotiations in Geneva over Iran\u2019s nuclear program and an attempt to break the diplomatic deadlock.<\/p>\n According to Western press reports, Iran\u2019s<\/a> military movements in the Strait of Hormuz are also related to preparations in anticipation of any possible American military action, amid reports of a review of military options by the Washington administration.<\/p>\nStrategic background<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Interpretations and analyses<\/strong><\/h2>\n