Tehran, 19 April (H.S.):

Iran has escalated tensions in a vital global chokepoint for energy and maritime trade by imposing stringent measures on the Strait of Hormuz. First, Tehran introduced a controversial pay-and-pass protocol for ship transit. Now, Iran's Revolutionary Guards have announced a complete closure of the strait starting Saturday evening.

Under the new regime, vessels paying fees for security and rescue services will receive priority passage. Those refusing payment face indefinite suspension of movement. Iranian officials describe these steps as a direct response to mounting regional tensions and external pressures.

The Revolutionary Guards further clarified that the full strait closure takes effect from Saturday evening. They accuse the United States of breaching a recent ceasefire agreement by maintaining a naval blockade on Iranian ships and ports.

Tehran asserts that these harsh actions are essential to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests amid the unfolding crisis.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar