The Iranian armed forces announced on June 20, 2026, that they will close the Strait of Hormuz, citing the United States' failure to address Israeli attacks on Lebanon as a violation of a recent ceasefire agreement. This announcement follows the reopening of the strait just three days prior.
This situation marks a significant escalation in tensions between the U.S. and Iran, occurring shortly after both parties signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at ending hostilities. U.S. officials reported that there have been no observable Iranian military movements indicating a potential closure of the strait, and U.S. Central Command confirmed that safe passage through the waterway remained intact, with 55 merchant ships transiting and transporting over 17 million barrels of oil.
The Iranian military stated that the closure is a response to ongoing violations of the ceasefire by Israel and described it as the first step in their response. They warned that further actions would be taken if aggression continues. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps navy also declared that the strait is closed to all vessels and cautioned ships against approaching.