Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions, Nuclear Talks Begin in Switzerland

Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, citing violations of an agreement by Israeli attacks in Lebanon. This decision immediately raises tensions and casts a shadow over crucial nuclear negotiations set to commence in Switzerland.

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We will ask the counterpart to implement the commitments and clarify how they intend to respect them.

The move follows a period of heightened regional activity, with Iran accusing Israel of breaching a previously reached accord. The closure of Hormuz, a waterway Iran had recently reopened, signals a significant escalation and complicates the diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the Iranian nuclear dossier within a 60-day timeframe.

However, official confirmation of the closure from Washington has been lacking. U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated there was no evidence of a shutdown, while U.S. Central Command (Centcom) reported that commercial maritime traffic had actually increased on June 20, with 55 merchant ships transiting the strait. U.S. forces remain vigilant in the region.

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We can talk about nuclear issues when the implementation of commitments according to clauses 1, 4, 5, 10 and 11 begins and continues. Unfortunately, we are not witnessing this situation.

Despite the tensions surrounding Hormuz, Iran has confirmed its delegation will attend the talks in Switzerland. The negotiations, which aim to address the nuclear program and other outstanding issues, are seen as the first concrete step toward de-escalation. Iran's Foreign Ministry stated that the implementation of a memorandum of understanding is a prerequisite for final agreement talks, expressing concern over perceived ceasefire violations.

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Commercial maritime traffic has increased on June 20 with the transit of 55 merchant ships.