The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has declared that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all vessels, with American forces prepared to ensure free navigation through the waterway.
The statement directly contradicts an earlier announcement by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which had claimed the strategic passage was closed.
This assertion by US military leadership aims to stabilize market sentiment amid escalating geopolitical tensions in the Persian Gulf.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy chokepoint, handling a significant portion of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas trade.
Any disruption to transit through the narrow waterway poses immediate risks to global energy supplies and freight rates.
The conflicting messages between Tehran and Washington have created uncertainty for shipping operators and energy traders.