The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has publicly rejected Iranian claims that Tehran controls vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest maritime trade routes. In a statement released on July 9, CENTCOM said Iran does not possess the legal authority to regulate international shipping through the strategic waterway and reaffirmed that freedom of navigation remains protected under international maritime law.

The response came after Iranian state media and military officials reportedly claimed that commercial ships were required to use maritime corridors designated by Iran, warning that vessels deviating from those routes could face military action.

CENTCOM Issues 'Fact Check'

In a social media statement, CENTCOM directly challenged the Iranian position.

The US military said claims that transit through the Strait of Hormuz is permitted only via routes designated by Iran were inaccurate, adding that Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz.

Washington has maintained that the international community does not recognise any unilateral authority by Iran to regulate commercial traffic through the strategic passage.

Escalating Military Tensions

The exchange comes amid heightened military tensions between the United States and Iran.

According to US officials, American forces recently carried out airstrikes on multiple Iranian military targets following allegations that Iran launched drone and missile attacks against commercial tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM stated that approximately 170 military targets, including radar installations, air defence systems, command centres and fast-attack boats operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), were targeted during the operation.

The United States has described the strikes as a response to attacks on commercial shipping and as part of efforts to maintain maritime security in the Gulf.

Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz is widely regarded as one of the world's most strategically significant maritime chokepoints.

Roughly 20 per cent of global seaborne crude oil passes through the narrow waterway each day, making uninterrupted navigation critical for global energy markets and international trade.

According to CENTCOM, US naval forces have helped escort and secure the passage of more than 800 commercial vessels carrying an estimated 380 million barrels of crude oil since early May.

US officials say these operations are intended to ensure the uninterrupted flow of international commerce through the Gulf.

Iran Continues to Challenge Shipping

According to US military officials, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has continued challenging commercial vessels by urging ships to avoid temporary United Nations-backed maritime routes near the coast of Oman and instead use navigation corridors monitored by Iranian authorities.

Iran has also warned of further military responses to Western naval operations in the region. In recent weeks, missile and drone attacks have reportedly targeted US-linked military installations in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait amid the broader confrontation between Washington and Tehran.

No Change in US Naval Presence

Despite rising tensions, US officials have indicated that American naval forces will continue operating in the region to support freedom of navigation and safeguard commercial shipping.

The developments come as diplomatic efforts continue to reduce tensions between Washington and Tehran, even as military activity remains elevated. Analysts note that the security of the Strait of Hormuz remains central to global energy stability, with any disruption likely to have significant implications for international oil markets, regional security and global trade.