Iranian MPs propose closing Strait of Hormuz if Israeli attacks on Lebanon continue

Iranian lawmakers have proposed a range of responses, including a crushing military strike and closure of the Strait of Hormuz, if Israel continues its attacks on Lebanon in violation of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Iran and the United States.

The MoU, signed by the presidents of Iran and the US after recent regional conflicts, included a provision for a complete cessation of military operations on all fronts of the conflict, including Lebanon. However, in recent days, Israel has resumed attacks on southern Lebanon, which observers consider a clear violation of Article 1 of the MoU. Iran has so far adhered to its obligations under the agreement, according to official reports.

In an interview with Mehr News, Hojjatoleslam Mojtaba Zonnour, head of the Defense and National Authority Faction of the Islamic Consultative Assembly, stated that Iran's negotiators should have included a clause that violating any provision means violating all. He emphasized that mere threats are not enough and that Iran's armed forces must provide an immediate crushing response, targeting areas where Israeli forces are gathering to attack Lebanon. Zonnour added that if the US sides with Israel, Iran must close the Strait of Hormuz.

Esmaeil Kowsari, a member of the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, echoed the call for closing the Strait of Hormuz and directly targeting Israeli territory if attacks continue. He stressed that the US must fulfill its commitments as guarantor of the MoU.

Seyyed Reza Sadr al-Husseini, an international affairs expert, said that Trump appears unable to control Israel, which he described as a "rabid dog." He proposed delaying the MoU process and, as a second step, blocking the Strait of Hormuz to pressure the US energy economy, followed by precise missile strikes in occupied territories.

Fadah Hossein Maleki, another member of the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, said Israel is trying to sabotage Iran-US negotiations. He called for a consensus among Islamic countries and intervention by Western powers, Russia, and China to contain Israel. He warned that if diplomatic efforts fail, Iran will give the necessary response.

According to Mehr News, these reactions follow continued Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon despite the MoU's provisions. The lawmakers' statements reflect growing frustration within Iran over the perceived lack of US commitment to enforcing the ceasefire.