Iran declares Strait of Hormuz closed; U.S. rejects claim

Iran's central military command declared the Strait of Hormuz closed to shipping on Saturday, a move it framed as a response to Israeli attacks in southern Lebanon. The command stated this action violated a framework agreement with the United States intended to end the war. Iran warned that further steps would be taken if aggression continued, aiming to compel adherence to obligations.

However, the U.S. military immediately countered Iran's assertion. Spokesman Tim Hawkins asserted that Iran does not control the strait and that maritime traffic remains open. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported on X that ship traffic had actually increased, with 55 vessels carrying 17 million barrels of oil passing through the strait on Saturday.

The situation unfolds despite a framework agreement signed Wednesday between Iran and the U.S. that was meant to establish a ceasefire across the region, including Lebanon. Nevertheless, Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah militia have continued their clashes. Lebanese media reported at least 35 deaths from Israeli airstrikes, with the Israeli army and Hezbollah blaming each other for violations of the truce. The ongoing conflict and Iran's declaration regarding the Strait of Hormuz highlight the fragile state of regional stability.