Lawmakers in Iran have voted to shut the Strait of Hormuz in response to the recent U.S. military strikes on its nuclear facilities.
The vote was cast just hours after American forces bombed three Iranian nuclear sites, triggering widespread global concern and raising fears of a new energy and security crisis.
Though the Iranian parliament approved the move, the final decision lies with the Supreme National Security Council, which has yet to make an official announcement.
The decision comes as Tehran vows to respond forcefully to what it calls an illegal and aggressive act by the United States.
Oil Route Closure May Trigger Global Recession
The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage through which over 20% of the world’s oil supply and 33% of global liquefied natural gas passes. Any disruption could cause severe supply shocks, push global oil prices past $100 per barrel, and possibly lead to inflation and recession in vulnerable economies.
Experts believe Iran could mine the waterway or use missile threats to block shipping. Such action would not only hurt Western countries but also disrupt exports from regional oil producers like Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE.
An oil analyst said, “If they mine the strait, all of the Middle East gets affected. The Qataris and Saudis won’t just watch their exports be blocked.”
Trump Declares Airstrikes a Military Triumph
President Donald Trump confirmed the U.S. carried out “Operation Midnight Hammer,” targeting Iran’s nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. He declared the mission a complete success.
“A full payload of bombs was dropped on the primary site—Fordow. All planes are now safely on their way home,” Trump posted. He added, “There is not another military in the world that could have done this.”
In a follow-up statement, Trump warned Iran: “There will be either peace or there will be tragedy. If peace does not come quickly, we will go after other targets.”
Iran Threatens “Everlasting Consequences”
Iran, defiant, said the strikes had crossed a red line. Its’s foreign minister said the “The time for diplomacy is over. This attack will have everlasting consequences,” he warned.
Iran’s ambassador to the UK clarified that Tehran had no intention to launch a military offensive but reaffirmed its right to self-defense. Government spokespersons added that the U.S. had betrayed diplomacy and must now accept the consequences.
The President has absolute authority to conduct military strikes. It wasn’t a declaration of war which would need congressional approval. BTW this was the Iranian Parliament just 3 days ago. So fuck all the way off..pic.twitter.com/zeiX3VR5HM
— Ava- I Love My USA! 🇺🇸 (@WEdwarda) June 22, 2025
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation insisted that nuclear development will continue despite the attacks. They also denied any radioactive leaks, saying, “There is no danger to residents near the nuclear sites.”
Iran’s Parliament Committee on Foreign Policy said the U.S. attack has given the country the legal right to withdraw from the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Citing Article 10 of the treaty, lawmakers argued that Iran’s supreme interests have been threatened.
Meanwhile, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has denied having proof that Iran was building nuclear weapons. “We have no such indication,” the IAEA chief stated.
U.S. Defence: “We Destroyed Iran’s Nuclear Ambitions”
U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters the objective was to eliminate Iran’s nuclear threat, not to start a prolonged war.
“The operation did not target Iranian troops or civilians. We focused on the nuclear programme,” he explained. Hegseth added that communication lines with Tehran remain open.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said, “If the regime wants peace, we’re ready. If not, they’re vulnerable.” Vice President JD Vance also ruled out ground troop deployment, saying, “We don’t want a protracted conflict.”
Security has been tightened across major American cities. NYPD and Washington’s MPD announced increased patrols around religious and diplomatic sites, stating there are no current threats but warning of potential retaliation.
Global Reaction Mixed
World leaders are urging calm. The UK, France, Germany, and the EU have all called for a return to diplomacy. France said, “The only path forward is within the framework of the Non-Proliferation Treaty.” Germany demanded urgent talks between Iran, the U.S., and Israel.
Russia condemned the strikes, warning they could destabilize the region. China called the U.S. attack a violation of international law and urged both sides to seek peace.
Turkey warned that the conflict now risks becoming global. The EU Commission and Council reiterated the need for diplomacy to prevent further civilian casualties. Japan urged quick de-escalation while insisting Iran’s nuclear ambitions must end.
Back in Iran, authorities reported over 630 deaths and more than 1,300 injuries from Israel’s recent attacks.
Enjoyed this story? Rate it, leave a comment💬, and follow us on social media for more. Got a news tip or story to share? Submit it here and earn points toward ₦10,000 rewards!
