Iran announces closure of Strait of Hormuz over ceasefire violations

TEHRAN: Iran has announced the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all maritime traffic, citing alleged U.S. violations of a memorandum of understanding and continued Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon.

In a statement broadcast on Iranian state television, a spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said the strategic waterway was being shut “with immediate effect” for all shipping.

The statement accused the United States of failing to meet its obligations under a reconciliation agreement, while also blaming Israel for ongoing military operations in southern Lebanon.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps separately confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz had been fully closed since Saturday morning, according to Iranian media reports.

The IRGC warned that all commercial, oil, and cargo vessels should avoid the area, saying their safety could be at risk if they approach the strait.

Iranian officials said the closure was a response to what they described as U.S. breaches of ceasefire commitments and continued regional escalation. They warned that further measures could follow if hostilities continue.

The announcement came as an Iranian delegation headed to Switzerland for talks with U.S. officials, while senior American envoys, including Middle East negotiator Steve Witkoff, were already reported to be in the region.

No timeframe was given for how long the closure would remain in effect.