Hormuz Route Open for Shipping Despite Iran Declaration

A maritime industry group said the Strait of Hormuz remains open for shipping despite Iran's declaration to the contrary — a position echoed by U.S. CENTCOM, while Iranian authorities insist passage is not possible and transit traffic has fallen sharply. Approximately 20% of the world's oil passes through the strait, so its operational status directly influences crude oil prices. For ordinary investors, the dispute over the strait's real status matters because any confirmed disruption could ripple through oil prices, energy stocks, and related investments.