Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that a "new chapter is opening" for the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz following the start of the war by the US and Israel. This was reported by UNN with reference to Reuters.
Details
Khamenei stated that Tehran would "ensure security" in the Persian Gulf region and put an end to what he called "the enemy's abuses regarding the waterway." He also added that the new management of the Strait of Hormuz would "bring peace, progress, and economic benefits" to all Persian Gulf countries.
Context
US and Israeli military operations against Iran have been ongoing since February 2026. The primary targets have been uranium enrichment nuclear centers in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, as well as facilities in Tehran and Kermanshah province.
As a result of strikes at the beginning of the campaign, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed. Iran responded with strikes on US bases in the Middle East, as well as on Israeli cities.
In early April 2026, an agreement was reached for a two-week ceasefire. As a result of the hostilities, more than 13 US service members were reported killed, and over 300 others were injured.
Iranian losses are estimated at approximately 1,000 military personnel. The hostilities led to an escalation of the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, which is a strategic maritime route.
Amid the escalation of the conflict between the US and Iran in April 2026, oil prices rose sharply, exceeding 120-126 US dollars per barrel of Brent crude. This is the highest level since 2022.
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