Tehran: Iran has announced the closure of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The move comes in the wake of Israeli military strikes in southern Lebanon, which reportedly left 32 people dead. Iranian authorities said the decision was taken against the backdrop of the continuing attacks and growing instability in the region.
Iran has accused the United States and Israel of violating ceasefire agreements and contributing to the escalation of hostilities. In a statement, Khatam al-Anbiya, Iran’s senior joint military command, warned that further attacks would prompt additional measures from Tehran.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes, is a key passage for global energy supplies. Any disruption to traffic through the waterway is closely watched by international markets and governments due to its potential impact on global oil trade and regional security.
