The geopolitical dispute over the Strait of Hormuz has intensified further after a spokesperson for Iran's Revolutionary Guards stated that U.S. interference in the strategic waterway has seriously jeopardized the security of global oil and gas supplies. The spokesperson reaffirmed that Iran continues to assert its authority and control over the Strait, countering recent U.S. assertions that the corridor remains open and free from Iranian regulation. The escalating rhetoric highlights the persistent risks to energy supply chains through the vital chokepoint, which handles a significant portion of the world's oil transit.

Iran's Assertion of Control

In a sharp rebuke to U.S. military presence in the region, the Revolutionary Guards spokesperson emphasized that Iran maintains its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. The statement directly challenges the narrative pushed by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which recently rejected claims that transit is permitted only via routes designated by Iran. By linking U.S. actions to the security of global energy supplies, Iran is framing its military posture as a defensive measure necessary for regional stability, while simultaneously warning of the consequences of foreign intervention.

CENTCOM's Rejection of Iranian Claims

The latest Iranian declaration follows a post on X by CENTCOM, which explicitly stated that Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM reported that U.S. forces have facilitated the transit of more than 800 commercial vessels and 380 million barrels of crude oil through the waterway since early May. The command's data serves to reassure international markets of the corridor's accessibility despite the tensions.

Market Impact and Oil Prices

The instability surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continues to influence global oil prices, as traders weigh the risk of potential supply disruptions against the reported flow of shipping. Recent market data shows West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil at $72.26/barrel and Brent crude at $76.50/bbl. The United States Oil Fund (USO) was observed trading at $109.01 during after-hours sessions, reflecting the market's sensitivity to the military and diplomatic posturing in the region.

Former National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the U.S. to increase support for Iranian opposition groups, arguing that Washington should not underestimate the influence of Iran's military leadership. Bolton's comments come amid rising tensions following U.S. strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions near the Strait of Hormuz, which have rattled global markets and raised concerns about energy security.

In a post on X on Sunday, Bolton stated that if the U.S. does not intend to act robustly against the regime in Iran before the November elections, it should focus resources on the opposition on the ground. He emphasized the strategic importance of this support in the absence of direct military action against Tehran.

Bolton's Assessment of Iranian Control

Bolton cautioned against the perception that the Iranian government is significantly weakened. He described the idea that the government is merely wounded but continuing as before as a "dangerous illusion." He noted that while a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was negotiated by civilians, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) remains the dominant military force.

"The MOU was negotiated by civilians, but the IRGC is still running the show militarily," Bolton said in a separate post on Sunday.

Market Impact and Diplomatic Stance

The exchange of strikes between the U.S. and Iran has introduced volatility into global markets. The U.S. launched strikes following an attack on a commercial ship near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by striking U.S. bases and claiming the key waterway was closed, a claim disputed by U.S. Central Command, which affirmed the waterway remains open to lawful traffic.

Diplomatic channels remain open, though strained. The Trump administration indicated that diplomacy is still possible but warned of an "overwhelming force" response to further aggression. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker stated that President Trump is committed to peace but will act decisively if shipping is threatened. However, Iran reportedly refused to restart talks unless Washington changes its position, adding further pressure on energy markets and regional stability.