Iran closes Strait of Hormuz citing US-Israel violations

In a formal statement on Saturday, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The decision comes in response to what Iran describes as "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and "the Zionist regime's continuous and ongoing violations of the ceasefire in southern Lebanon."

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic waterway through which about a fifth of the world's oil passes. The closure marks a significant escalation in regional tensions. The statement did not provide further details on the duration or scope of the closure.

According to Mehr News, the announcement was made without prior warning. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters is a key Iranian military command responsible for strategic operations. The move is likely to draw international reactions, particularly from oil-importing nations and global powers.

The post-war memorandum of understanding referenced by Iran is believed to relate to agreements following the Iran-Iraq war, though specific details were not elaborated. Meanwhile, the ceasefire in southern Lebanon, which has been fragile, has seen repeated allegations of violations by both Israel and Hezbollah.

This development is expected to have immediate impacts on global oil markets and maritime security. Shipping companies and oil traders are likely to adjust routes and prices in response. The Iranian statement did not indicate any conditions for reopening the strait.