By NE NOW NEW
Guwahati: Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to vessel traffic, citing what it described as violations of a ceasefire agreement by the United States and Israel, a move that could have significant implications for global energy markets and regional stability.
The announcement was made on Saturday by Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the country’s top joint military command. According to reports carried by Iran’s state-run Mehr News Agency, Tehran described the closure as an initial response to what it called breaches of commitments by Washington and Tel Aviv.
In an official statement, the military command accused the United States of failing to uphold understandings reached under a ceasefire arrangement and alleged that Israel had continued military operations in southern Lebanon despite the agreement. Iranian authorities argued that these developments constituted a violation of the ceasefire framework and justified restricting maritime traffic through the strategically important waterway.
Iran warned that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz was only the “first step” and indicated that additional measures could follow if what it termed “aggression” by its adversaries continued.
The development comes amid renewed tensions in the region following a sharp escalation of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. Lebanese authorities reported that 47 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Friday, while Israel announced the deaths of four soldiers, marking one of the deadliest exchanges since diplomatic efforts were launched to reduce tensions.
The violence had raised doubts over a broader understanding involving the United States and Iran aimed at de-escalating regional conflicts. Negotiations between Washington and Tehran were reportedly suspended after the fighting intensified, casting uncertainty over efforts to maintain stability in the region.
However, diplomatic efforts continued behind the scenes, and Israeli and Hezbollah officials later agreed to a ceasefire with support from international mediators. A US official confirmed that both sides had accepted the arrangement following intense exchanges that threatened to derail recent peace initiatives.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, serving as a major route for global oil and gas shipments. Any disruption to navigation through the passage is closely watched by governments, energy markets, and shipping industries worldwide due to its potential impact on international trade and energy supplies.
Iran’s latest move is expected to heighten concerns over regional security and could further complicate ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing a wider conflict in West Asia.