On July 9, 2026, Iranian state media asserted that commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz must use routes designated by Iran. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) immediately pushed back, posting on X:

🚫 CLAIM: Iranian state media claims that transit through the Strait of Hormuz is only permitted through routes designated by Iran.

✅ TRUTH: Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz. Since early May, U.S. forces have helped facilitate the successful transit of more than 800