Tehran, Iran – Iran said Saturday that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israeli strikes in Lebanon and alleged U.S. violations of a new interim agreement aimed at ending regional hostilities.
Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced the closure through state-linked media, warning ships to avoid the key oil shipping route. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said the move was a response to Israeli attacks in Lebanon and what Tehran described as U.S. failure to enforce the agreement.
The United States disputed Iran’s claim. U.S. Central Command said commercial traffic was still moving through the strait and that U.S. forces were monitoring the waterway to ensure freedom of navigation.
The announcement followed Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon that killed at least 16 people, according to AP, while Reuters reported at least 20 deaths. Israel said it was responding to Hezbollah projectiles fired after a ceasefire took effect.
The dispute threatens talks scheduled in Switzerland, where U.S., Iranian, Qatari, and Pakistani officials are expected to discuss implementation of the interim U.S.-Iran deal. Vice President JD Vance said he still expected negotiations to continue.
Sources:
- BBC News – MBFC Rating
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