Middle East Conflict: Shots Fired at Ships Crossing Strait of Hormuz; Grave Allegations Against Iran

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. During this time, at least two merchant vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz reportedly came under fire.

Last Updated : Saturday, 18 April 2026
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Tehran: Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. During this time, at least two merchant vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz reportedly came under fire. This claim was made by sources associated with maritime security and shipping. They stated that the firing occurred on Saturday while these vessels were passing through the Strait. As of now, the Iranian Navy has not issued any statement regarding the firing on the ships.

Did IRGC ​​Claim Control Over Hormuz?

Meanwhile, the Joint Military Command of the IRGC issued a statement claiming that control over the Strait of Hormuz has now returned to its "previous state." In a statement cited by Iran's state broadcaster, IRIB, the IRGC Command—while accusing the U.S.—asserted that this strategically vital waterway is now under the strict management and control of its armed forces. Previously, Iran had signaled that it might keep this route open; however, in light of the U.S. attitude, it reversed its decision.

Why is Donald Trump Unwilling to Yield to Iran?

In a recent statement regarding a potential ceasefire, U.S. President Donald Trump explicitly stated that the blockade would remain in effect until an agreement is reached with Iran—an agreement that must also encompass its nuclear program. It was following this declaration that Iran adopted a hardline stance and announced its decision to halt transit through the Strait. Concurrently, another claim has been put forward: that Iran has identified several alleged networks linked to the U.S., Israel, and the UK, and has successfully dismantled all their connections. This information emerged from the intelligence wing of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).