Iran’s top joint military command, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, on Saturday announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to vessel traffic. The announcement came through Iran’s Mehr news agency, which reported that the move was linked to alleged violations of a ceasefire agreement by the United States and Israel in Lebanon.

Why has Iran closed Hormuz again?

The command said that the move was taken in response to what it called a “clear breach of trust and violation of commitment” by the Udunder the first clause of a memorandum of understanding (MoU). Tehran accused Washington of failing to uphold its obligations under the agreement. Calling it the “first step” in its response to strikes, Iran warned that more actions could follow if aggression continues.

In a separate statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that Tehran has adhered to its commitments under the agreement and placed responsibility on the US to ensure Israel stops its attacks in Lebanon. The remarks were reported by Fars news agency. The move also marks the first closure of the Strait of Hormuz since the peace deal between Iran and the US was signed on Wednesday.

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Israeli strikes kill 16

Meanwhile, reports suggest that Israeli strikes have killed 16 people in Lebanon on Saturday, just hours after a truce came into effect. Israel said the strikes were in response to attacks from Hezbollah, while the Iran-backed group said it would not allow Israel “freedom of movement” in Lebanon.

Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump said that ships are “flowing out” of the Hormuz following the US-Iran ceasefire. He claimed maritime traffic was resuming through the key waterway. Trump also said he expects Iran to agree to a final deal within 60 days of signing a MoU. He warned that if no agreement is reached within that period, the US could take action that "won't make them happy."

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