Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has ordered that the strategic Strait of Hormuz remain closed, escalating tensions in the ongoing Middle East conflict.
The directive came as Donald Trump stated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons was a greater priority than stabilising global oil prices.
According to Iranian state media, Khamenei—who has not appeared publicly since being named supreme leader following the death of his father Ali Khamenei—issued the order in a message broadcast on national television. Reports indicate he was injured during one of the early airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel.
In the televised statement, Khamenei described the closure of the Strait of Hormuz as a key strategic move. The narrow waterway is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, with roughly a quarter of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through it. He also urged Gulf nations to shut down U.S. military bases in the region.
Iran has reportedly launched fresh strikes targeting energy infrastructure across the Gulf, sending crude oil prices briefly above $100 per barrel. Analysts warn the disruption could evolve into one of the most significant supply shocks in the history of global energy markets.
Despite market concerns, Trump dismissed fears about rising oil prices, stating on social media that his main objective remained stopping Iran from developing nuclear weapons and destabilising the region.
Attacks Across the Gulf
Regional tensions intensified after multiple incidents involving vessels and energy facilities. In Bahrain, thick smoke was seen rising from fuel storage tanks in the city of Muharraq following a strike. Authorities advised residents to remain indoors.
Drone attacks also caused damage at Kuwait International Airport and in parts of Dubai. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reported intercepting drones aimed at its Shaybah oil field and the diplomatic district.
Shipping activity in and around the Strait of Hormuz has nearly halted, with several vessels reportedly attacked in waters near the United Arab Emirates and Iraq.
The International Energy Agency warned that the conflict could trigger the largest oil supply disruption ever recorded, surpassing the energy shocks of the 1970s. Oil prices have already surged between 40 and 50 percent since the United States and Israel launched strikes on Iran on February 28.
Risk of a Prolonged Conflict
Iranian military leaders have warned the war could drag on and severely damage the global economy. U.S. officials, however, indicated the air campaign may continue while potential targets remain.
Security analysts believe Iran could adopt a long-term strategy of attrition against the United States and Israel.
The conflict has also spread beyond Iran. In Lebanon, Israeli airstrikes have killed hundreds, including civilians sheltering along Beirut’s seafront. Authorities say more than 800,000 people have been displaced across the country.
Within Iran, the UNHCR estimates that over three million people have been forced to leave their homes since the conflict began.
Israel’s military said it has launched another wave of large-scale strikes across Iran, including a strike near Tehran targeting facilities linked to nuclear development. Satellite images reportedly show damage at the Parchin military complex, believed to be connected to weapons research.
U.S. forces have also targeted Iranian naval assets, striking dozens of vessels believed to be capable of laying mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
Oil Markets Under Pressure
The escalating conflict has pushed crude prices beyond $100 per barrel, despite an emergency decision by major oil-consuming countries to release large volumes from their strategic reserves in coordination with the International Energy Agency.
Market analysts warn the release may not be enough to calm global energy markets if shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked.
Iranian authorities say more than 1,200 people have died since the conflict began, though independent verification of the figures remains difficult. In Israel, officials report at least 14 deaths, while attacks across the Gulf region have claimed dozens more lives, including civilians and U.S. military personnel.
U.S. lawmakers were also told during a Pentagon briefing that the war has already cost Washington more than $11 billion.