Based on verified claims and recent news reports, here is my analysis:
Reasoning:
- The Strait of Hormuz was initially closed in early March 2026 during the Iran war, then briefly reopened on April 17, 2026 following a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.
- On April 18, 2026, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy announced a dramatic reversal, stating the strait would be closed again until the United States lifts its naval blockade on Iranian vessels and ports.
- The IRGC issued a direct warning that "no vessel of any kind should move from its anchorage in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, and approaching the Strait of Hormuz will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel will be targeted".
- More than a dozen commercial ships passed through the waterway during the brief reopening before Iran reimposed the blockade.
- Reports confirm the IRGC fired on commercial ships attempting to transit the strait on April 18, 2026, validating that the blockade is actively being enforced.
Overall validity: 95%