Iran’s military command has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to ship traffic, citing alleged violations of a war-ending memorandum of understanding by the United States and ongoing ceasefire breaches in southern Lebanon.
However, US officials have rejected indications of any such closure, saying no evidence has emerged of disruption in the key maritime route.
Iran Announces Strait of Hormuz closure
According to Iranian media, the Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters said the decision was taken in response to what it described as the United States’ “explicit breach” of commitments under a ceasefire-related understanding.
The statement also accused Israel of continuing ceasefire violations in southern Lebanon, including killings and displacement, and of failing to withdraw from the region.
Iran described the move as the “first step,” warning that further measures could follow if alleged violations continue.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes, connecting Gulf producers to global markets.
Any disruption in the waterway is typically seen as having major implications for global energy supplies and maritime trade.
However, at the time of reporting, no independent confirmation has verified any actual closure or disruption in shipping traffic through the strait.
US Response: No evidence of closure
US officials have said there is no confirmation that the Strait of Hormuz has been closed.
The remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic activity between Washington and Tehran, with senior officials engaged in negotiations in Switzerland.
US Vice President JD Vance said talks with Iran are expected to continue on Sunday and described the process as “progressing positively.”
JD Vance confirmed that senior US officials are already present at the negotiation site in Switzerland.
He specifically mentioned US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner as being on the ground for ongoing discussions.
He added that the talks are aimed at sustaining momentum and building toward a possible breakthrough.
Iranian delegation to visit Switzerland for talks
Iran’s Foreign Ministry has announced that a delegation will travel to Switzerland to review progress on an ongoing agreement, amid continued diplomatic efforts linked to regional ceasefire arrangements and broader understandings.
The statement comes as tensions remain high over compliance concerns and cross-border developments in the Middle East.
According to the Iranian Foreign Ministry, the delegation will visit Switzerland to assess progress on the implementation of the current deal framework.
Officials said the purpose of the visit is to evaluate commitments made under the agreement and ensure that all parties are moving forward as expected.
The ministry stated that Iran will use the talks to demand the fulfilment of obligations by the other party involved in the understanding.
It added that Tehran considers itself compliant with its commitments and expects reciprocal steps from other stakeholders.
