Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz in Response to Israeli Strikes on Lebanon

TEHRAN — The Iranian Central Military Command announced on the 20th that it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for Israeli military strikes in southern Lebanon. Tehran stated that these Israeli actions violate the existing agreements reached between Iran and the United States.

According to a statement broadcast by Iranian state television, the Khatam Al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the Iranian military's operational command, officially declared the strait closed to all vessel traffic. The command characterized this decision as an initial response to what it labeled as 'hostile bad faith,' warning that further measures will be implemented if military aggression continues.

Reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon resulted in 47 fatalities, while Israel confirmed the deaths of four of its soldiers. Despite reports from U.S. officials suggesting a potential ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, current hostilities remain intense. This escalation marks the most significant breach of the peace framework established by the U.S. and Iran to end regional conflict.