Iran says it is closing the Strait of Hormuz again. The justification is the Israeli attacks on Lebanon, as well as Tehran’s view that the United States has breached its obligations.
Iran’s central military command announces that it has once again closed the strategically important Strait of Hormuz because of Israeli attacks in Lebanon, which it describes as a violation of Tehran’s agreement with the United States, writes the Times of Israel.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) carried out a series of strikes in southern and eastern Lebanon during the night leading into Saturday. Lebanese media and first responders report that at least 27 people were killed and 26 wounded in the attacks.
According to the IDF, the strikes targeted Hezbollah after the Iran-backed terrorist group attacked Israeli forces in violation of the ceasefire. It is not known whether the IDF suffered military losses as a result of these attacks.
“It is hereby announced that the Strait of Hormuz will be closed to maritime traffic. It should be noted that this first step is a response to the enemy’s breach of its promises, and if the aggression continues, further steps will be planned and implemented to compel the enemy to comply with its obligations,” Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said in a statement broadcast on state television.
Iran is threatening that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is only a “first step” in response to what it describes as breaches of obligations, and is warning of further measures if the aggression continues.
US Vice President J.D. Vance told Fox News that there is no “evidence” that the waterway has been closed. One may nevertheless assume that such a threat from Iran alone will reduce traffic through the strait.
The Iran war appears set to end in endless negotiations between the United States and Iran, with Israel placed on the sidelines. Tehran appears expert at dragging out time, and it knows full well that pressure on US President Donald Trump at home increases with each passing day.
An increasing number of people are now questioning whether it was so wise of Trump to allow Tehran to include the situation in Lebanon in the negotiations on a ceasefire and a statement of intent regarding a peace settlement.