Iran announced on Saturday that it has closed the Strait of Hormuz, citing ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon and accusing the United States of failing to uphold its commitments under an interim agreement. Iran's military command stated that if the aggression continues, further actions are planned. Meanwhile, Iran's negotiating team is heading to Switzerland for talks, although Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Bagahei indicated that substantial progress is unlikely until the U.S. fulfills its obligations.
In Washington, Vice President JD Vance confirmed that U.S. negotiators Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff are in Switzerland working on the details of the negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. Vance mentioned that he plans to travel to Switzerland in the coming days.
The situation in Lebanon remains tense, with Israeli airstrikes earlier on Saturday killing at least 16 people, including two children. The death toll from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah has surpassed 4,000, according to Lebanon's health ministry. Hezbollah has stated its commitment to a ceasefire but accused Israel of violating it.
The interim U.S.-Iran agreement had previously reopened the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for global oil and gas supplies. The deal also aims to resume discussions on Iran's nuclear program. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israeli forces will remain in southern Lebanon until all threats are eliminated, while Hezbollah demands Israel's withdrawal as a condition for halting attacks. A new round of U.S.-backed talks between the Lebanese government and Israel is expected to take place next week.