Iran has announced the immediate closure of the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, holding the United States responsible for what it described as violations of a ceasefire understanding and diplomatic commitments, amid ongoing Israeli military operations in Lebanon.
As per the spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters confirmed that all maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has been suspended with immediate effect.
The spokesperson described the move as a “first response” to what Tehran called continued breaches of agreements and regional aggression.
The statement further accused the United States of failing to uphold its obligations under a memorandum of understanding, while also criticizing Israel for continuing strikes in southern Lebanon.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed that the closure took effect early Saturday morning. A military source quoted by Iranian media agency Fars stated that the waterway is now completely closed to all commercial, oil, and naval vessels.
The IRGC warned that any attempt by ships to approach the Strait of Hormuz would be considered a serious security risk. Shipping companies and international maritime operators were urged to reroute vessels and avoid the area until further notice.
Iranian officials did not specify the duration of the closure but indicated that further steps could be taken if what they called “hostile actions” continue.
They also confirmed that diplomatic discussions are ongoing, with an Iranian delegation traveling to Switzerland for talks with international counterparts.
The Strait of Hormuz had briefly reopened following a reported agreement involving Pakistan and other parties, which had contributed to a temporary stabilization in global oil markets and a decline in prices.
The latest development has raised renewed concerns over global energy security, given the Strait of Hormuz’s critical role as a key transit route for international oil shipments.
