Iran closes Hormuz Strait, citing Israeli raids in Lebanon as violation of U.S. deal

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic, citing Israel's "flagrant violation" of a preliminary agreement with the United States through its continued bombing in Lebanon. The Iranian joint military command called the move a "first step" in response to Israel's "refusal" to withdraw from southern Lebanon, despite a pact with Washington that theoretically mandates an end to hostilities and respect for Lebanon's territorial integrity.

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Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz, this time due to the 'flagrant violation' of the preliminary agreement with the U.S. that implies Israel continues bombing in Lebanon, causing another 25 deaths this Saturday.

This development occurs as Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon continue, with reports of at least 25 deaths on Saturday alone. While Israel maintains its commitment to a ceasefire, Hezbollah has continued to launch projectiles. The agreement between the U.S. and Iran, intended to lead to 60 days of negotiations, has been complicated by Iran's demand that the U.S. first compel Israel to cease its attacks in Lebanon. Technical talks were expected to begin in Switzerland but are contingent on Iran's conditions being met.

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The Iranian joint military command calls it a 'first step' in a statement announcing the 'closure to maritime traffic' of the strategic strait due to Israel's 'refusal' to withdraw from the southern territories of Lebanon.

Israeli warplanes and drones have targeted multiple sites in southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, according to Lebanon's state news agency. Lebanese Civil Defense rescue services reported 12 injuries and dozens evacuated in the Nabatieh region, where bombings have been concentrated. Reports indicate civilian casualties, including nine people, mostly women and children, killed in Qanarit, and a couple and their two children killed in Barish. Two Lebanese soldiers were also reported killed, with the Lebanese army largely staying out of the conflict.

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As with all truces involving Israel, the new one in Lebanon has more title than reality.

Hezbollah has asserted its "right to resist" the occupation, while mediators are working to secure a definitive agreement. The situation highlights the fragile nature of truces in the region and the complex diplomatic maneuvering between Iran, the U.S., and Israel, with Lebanon caught in the crossfire.

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Hezbollah stresses its 'right' to 'confront the enemy when it attacks, as it is the aggressor and the occupier'.