The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is the only route for crude oil exports from major Middle Eastern oil-producing countries including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Qatar, and the UAE. Approximately one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil trade passes through this strait.

According to CCTV News, in the late night of March 2 local time, an advisor to the commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps stated that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed, and Iran would target all vessels attempting to pass through the strait.

As of now, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has not issued an official statement.

Top Maritime Union declares Strait of Hormuz a high-risk area

According to a statement on the official website of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), following the escalation of military attacks in the region, the ITF and the Joint Negotiating Group have designated the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters as a "High-Risk Area".

This designation means shipowners and operators must provide seafarers with enhanced protection, including pre-voyage risk assessments, contractually agreed insurance coverage, and the right for seafarers to refuse to enter the area.

The International Transport Workers' Federation represents 16.5 million transport workers worldwide, while the Joint Negotiating Group consists of maritime industry employers.

Real-time data from international tanker traffic monitoring systems showed that the speed of oil tankers in waters near the Strait of Hormuz has generally dropped to zero, with a large number of vessels suspending sailings to avoid risks.

Many major global oil companies and energy traders have issued urgent instructions to suspend all oil and fuel vessels from transiting the Strait of Hormuz to avoid safety risks posed by the escalating conflict. Several European countries have issued emergency bans urging their flagged oil tankers en route not to enter the strait.