In his first purported message since becoming supreme leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei said the critical Strait of Hormuz will remain essentially closed as a “tool of pressure” and that Iran’s neighbors are being targeted due to US bases. The statement was read on Iranian state TV on Khamenei’s behalf. He has not been seen in public since his appointment. The International Energy Agency said the world is facing the “largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market.” President Donald Trump has downplayed soaring oil prices, arguing the US benefits from high energy costs. Trump’s energy secretary said the US Navy is not yet ready to escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as Iran attacks ships in the waterway.

Full report : Iran’s new supreme leader says Strait of Hormuz will remain closed in first purported message to public.