Tehran: Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing dissatisfaction with Israel's recent airstrikes on Lebanon. This development disrupts a ceasefire agreement that had been reached less than a day earlier. The decision comes in response to the ongoing conflict, which has resulted in the deaths of over 20 people in Lebanon. Technical talks between the United States and Iran are slated to occur in Switzerland on Sunday.
According to Thai News Agency, Iran's Supreme Military Command has accused the United States and Israel of violating their agreement, which included achieving a ceasefire on all fronts, including Lebanon. In response, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, issuing warnings through the IRGC navy to all cargo and oil tankers to avoid the area due to safety concerns.
The closure follows a new wave of Israeli airstrikes targeting Nabatae and southern Lebanon, reportedly killing at least 27 people. Israel claims the strikes were in retaliation for Hezbollah's launch of over 50 rockets and shells at Israeli forces. Although Israel has committed to the ceasefire, it insists on defending itself against any perceived threats. The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, reached on Friday, quickly unraveled, with Israel reporting the loss of five soldiers in recent clashes.
The U.S. Central Command (US CENTCOM) has disputed Iran's claim, asserting that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping. The U.S. military is monitoring the situation closely, noting that 55 cargo and oil tankers transited the strait on Saturday without incident.
In the past, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that there would be no tolls in the Strait of Hormuz during the ceasefire, though he hinted at future tolls if peace negotiations fail. Analysts suggest that Iran's closure of the strait aims to exert pressure on the U.S. to curb Israel's military actions in Lebanon.
Meanwhile, high-level delegations from the United States and Iran are set to arrive in Switzerland to commence discussions on technical details and the nuclear program. The talks are part of a 60-day timeframe outlined in a 14-point agreement and memorandum of understanding signed by President Trump and Iranian President Masoud Peseshkyan last week.