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

WASHINGTON, United States — The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has dismissed Iranian media claims that vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz must follow routes designated by Tehran, calling the assertion false. In a statement, CENTCOM said Iran has not established control over the strategic waterway, through which a significant share of global oil shipments passes. The dispute comes amid a broader deterioration in ties between Washington and Tehran, with diplomatic dialogue stalled and mutual accusations mounting. According to the command, the disagreement over navigation in and around the strait has deepened as each side ties the issue to wider conditions. Diplomatic efforts to ease the standoff have slowed, and the escalation in rhetoric has been cited as raising the risk of military confrontation in the region. CENTCOM said the issue of freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz remains a central point of contention with Iran.