Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz after Israeli attacks on Lebanon

Iran's army announced it is closing the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic, citing Israel's attacks on southern Lebanon as a violation of a recently concluded agreement between the US and Iran. The military stated this is the initial step in response to the alleged breach.

The central command of the Iranian army declared in a statement broadcast on state television that the strait, a crucial route for energy transport in the region, would be closed. "This is the first step in response to the enemy's violation of the promise. If the aggression continues, we will plan and take future steps to force the enemy to comply with its obligations," the statement read.

Israeli forces continued their attacks in southern Lebanon on Friday, engaging with fighters from the Shiite movement Hezbollah. This occurred shortly after the United States announced a ceasefire between the parties. The ongoing hostilities had already strained the US-Iran deal, which aimed to end the wider Middle East war and included Lebanon as a key demand from Tehran.

The conflict, which began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks on Iran, saw Iran's subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz cause significant turmoil in global energy markets due to its importance for energy shipments.