Iran's state media reported on June 20, 2026, that the Strait of Hormuz is closed to commercial vessels due to ceasefire violations, following continued Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon. The Iranian military stated that the closure is a response to breaches of commitments by the U.S. and Israel, despite a recent U.S.-Iran deal aimed at ending hostilities.
U.S. Central Command reported that 55 merchant ships transited the strait on the same day, moving significant cargo, including over 17 million barrels of oil. U.S. forces remain vigilant to ensure compliance with the agreement.
The Israeli military claimed that Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, violated the ceasefire by launching projectiles at Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) in southern Lebanon, prompting retaliatory strikes. Hezbollah denied these claims, asserting adherence to the ceasefire.
The ongoing military actions have raised concerns about the stability of U.S. peace negotiations with Iran, which were intended to address issues including Iran's nuclear program. Key U.S. officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff, were in Switzerland for discussions related to the negotiations.
The U.S.-Iran memorandum signed earlier this week aimed for an immediate cessation of fighting, including in Lebanon, although Israel was not a direct party to the agreement. Iranian officials have indicated that Israeli strikes would be viewed as violations of the deal.
Tensions between the U.S. and Israeli leadership have escalated, particularly as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces political pressure and criticism regarding the Iran deal. Analysts suggest that Netanyahu's position is complicated by the perception that Iran has gained strategic advantages in the region.