Iran's IRGC abruptly reversed a government decision and closed the Strait of Hormuz, firing on commercial vessels near Oman.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had declared the waterway "completely open" hours earlier, highlighting a stark rift between diplomats and military.
The closure adds significant uncertainty to global energy markets, potentially driving oil price volatility amid ongoing US‑brokered cease‑fire talks.
Analysts note the power vacuum after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death has emboldened hard‑liners, complicating diplomatic outcomes.