On June 19, 2026, Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, citing Israel's military presence in southern Lebanon and the ongoing presence of US forces in the region as reasons. The announcement was made by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) via maritime radio channels. The IRGC stated that the closure would remain in effect until Israel withdrew its forces and the US lifted its naval blockade completely, as outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed by US and Iranian officials. The IRGC warned that any vessels approaching the strait would be targeted.
US Central Command had recently lifted its blockade on Iranian ports, but the IRGC indicated that the embargo removal was not complete. Following the IRGC's announcement, a US official reported a cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, although Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that military operations would continue. The memorandum signed on June 18 promised respect for Lebanon's sovereignty and an end to hostilities.
Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has also introduced new regulations for ships passing through the strait, requiring permits and reserving the right to impose fees in the future, despite the MOU stating that Iran would not charge shipping firms for 60 days.