[93260] Iran announces the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to IDF activity in southern Lebanon

Iran blocks the Strait of Hormuz; threats of further steps

The Iranian emergency headquarters "Khatam al-Anbiya" has officially announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to vessel traffic, a step that the Revolutionary Guards defined as a "first step" in response to what they call violations of a memorandum of understanding by the United States and Israel. According to reports from the Political-Security Cabinet - Moriah Asraf & Doron Kadosh, Iran claims that the U.S. failed to enforce the first clause of the agreement regarding a ceasefire, and that Israel continues military operations in southern Lebanon in violation of its commitments.

The Iranian statement, as published by News from the Field on Telegram and Epoch - Magazine, details that the presence of IDF forces in southern Lebanon and the continuation of strikes constitute a blatant violation of previous understandings. At the same time, the Revolutionary Guards Navy issued a grave warning to all vessels in the area, stating: "Do not approach the strait - otherwise your safety will be in danger" (according to News Channel 8200).

Additional sources such as Refael Hayun - Field Security emphasized that Iran views this step as a means of pressure to "bring the enemy to fulfill its obligations." Journalist Ben Caspit noted that this is a well-timed and planned move. On social media and among various commentators, such as Yossi Yehoshua and Dafna Liel, the announcement was described as part of a broader escalation against Israel, with Tehran making it clear that further steps will be taken if Israeli strikes in Lebanon continue.