Defiant message from Iran as vessels attempting to cross Hormuz report gunfire

Iran has swiftly reversed course on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, reimposing restrictions on the critical waterway

A man walks along the shore as oil tankers and cargo ships line up in the Strait of Hormuz, seen from Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates, March 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri, File)

At least two merchant vessels reported ​they were hit by gunfire as they attempted to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, three maritime security and shipping sources said, shortly after Iran said it was once more ‌tightening control of the waterway.

Some merchant vessels received a radio message from Iran's Navy that the vital energy chokepoint was shut again and no ships were allowed to pass through, shipping sources said.