An Iranian military command said Saturday that it had suspended ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, citing recent regional developments and alleged violations of a US-Iran agreement.
In a statement, the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, which is affiliated with Iran’s armed forces, said the decision was taken in response to what it described as Washington’s failure to uphold the first provision of a recently signed memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States.
The command also cited what it called repeated Israeli violations of a cease-fire in southern Lebanon and recent Israeli military operations in the area.
The statement did not specify how the suspension would be implemented or provide details on the duration of the measure.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. A significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports passes through the narrow channel, making any disruption a matter of international concern.
The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the region despite a recent US-Iran agreement brokered through international mediation.
Media reports indicate that southern Lebanon has been struck by multiple Israeli attacks since the agreement was announced. Reports have also suggested that sporadic military activity continued on Friday and Saturday despite the declaration of a cease-fire.
Neither the United States nor Israel had publicly responded to the Iranian statement as of Saturday.
Any confirmed disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could have significant implications for global energy markets and international trade.
