Iran has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed to maritime traffic until the United States accepts Tehran's conditions for reopening the waterway.
The statement, reported by multiple wire services, signals a refusal to ease the blockade without a significant diplomatic concession from Washington.
The development reinforces the ongoing disruption to one of the world's most critical energy corridors.
With the strait effectively shut, global oil markets continue to face supply constraints, and shipping insurers are likely to maintain elevated risk premiums for any vessels attempting transit.
The closure directly impacts the flow of crude and refined products, keeping upward pressure on Brent crude prices and freight rates.
This latest assertion follows Iran's rejection of a US proposal to unfreeze Iranian assets in exchange for guaranteeing free passage through the strait.