TEHRAN — Iran's military announced on Saturday the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing alleged violations of a recent U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement by the United States and Israel.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared the vital waterway shut to vessel traffic, according to Iranian state media. Officials pointed to continued Israeli strikes in Lebanon and what they described as U.S. breaches of commitments under the memorandum of understanding signed earlier this week.
The move came days after the framework deal aimed at ending months of conflict and reopening the strait, a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies. U.S. Vice President JD Vance indicated that talks with Iran were expected soon in Switzerland, even as the IRGC issued its warning.
Iran's top joint military command, Khatam al-Anbiya, stated the closure was a response to "America's blatant breach of promise" and Israel's failure to fully withdraw from southern Lebanon, Iranian reports said. The IRGC warned ships not to approach the area, stating their security would be at risk.
Details of the precise implementation remained unclear on Saturday. Earlier in the week, following the memorandum's signing, some tanker traffic had resumed, though volumes stayed limited amid ongoing tensions.
Iranian Foreign Ministry statements earlier this week had affirmed measures for safe passage under the agreement, but Saturday's announcement reversed that position. U.S. officials have not immediately commented on the latest declaration.
The strait, which historically carries about one-fifth of global oil trade, has been a central point of contention since disruptions began earlier this year. The recent U.S.-Iran memorandum included provisions for reopening it toll-free and lifting aspects of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports.
As of Saturday, shipping activity in the area showed signs of hesitation, with vessels monitoring developments. No independent confirmation of new incidents was available.
Negotiations on broader issues, including Iran's nuclear program, are scheduled to continue in the coming weeks under the 60-day framework of the memorandum.
