US Central Command says Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON, United States — The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting Iranian media reports that vessels can transit the waterway only along routes designated by Tehran. In a statement, CENTCOM stressed that Iran has not established dominance over the strategic choke point, through which a significant share of global oil shipments passes. The dispute comes amid a broader deterioration in relations between Washington and Tehran. Diplomatic channels have stalled, mutual accusations have mounted and attempts to reduce tensions have slowed, according to the report. The disagreement over freedom of navigation around the strait has deepened over conditions each side has linked to the talks. The sharper rhetoric between the United States and Iran has raised security concerns across the region, with the prospect of a military confrontation increasingly cited as a risk. The Strait of Hormuz remains a central point of friction as both sides harden their public positions.