21st June 2026
At the moment, both sides are technically telling part of the story.
Iran has announced that it considers the Strait of Hormuz "closed" and has warned shipping against using it. Iranian military officials say the closure is a response to what they claim are violations of recent agreements and ceasefires.
However, the key question for markets is not what Iran says, but whether ships are actually moving through the strait.
The U.S. military says commercial traffic is continuing, that vessels are still transiting the waterway, and that American forces are monitoring the area to keep it open. Reuters reported that U.S. Central Command stated the strait remains open and that shipping continues to pass through.
From the reports available today:
Iran has declared the strait closed.
The U.S. says ships are still moving through it.
Some shipping traffic appears to be continuing despite the Iranian announcement.
Shipping companies and insurers remain cautious because even if the route is technically open, the risk of attack, mines, inspections, or delays remains high.
So if your question is:
"Is the Strait of Hormuz physically closed right now?"
The evidence suggests no, not completely. Ships are still moving through the waterway, so it is not a total blockade at present.
"Has Iran declared it closed?"
Iran has again announced a closure and warned vessels away.
For oil prices, what matters is whether tankers continue sailing over the next few days. If traffic keeps flowing, oil markets may remain relatively calm. If insurers refuse cover or shipping companies stop sending vessels, then crude oil, petrol, diesel, heating oil and inflation could rise quickly, especially in Europe and the UK.