Iran has once again declared the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, attributing it to alleged breaches of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by the US and Israel. The decision follows the US and Israel’s reported violations of the ceasefire in southern Lebanon, as stated by Iran’s top joint military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters. The closure announcement was made shortly after an agreement to lift naval blockades was publicized.
The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters emphasized the US’ infringement of the MoU’s first article on ending the war and Israel’s actions in Lebanon as reasons for shutting down the Strait of Hormuz to vessel traffic. The MoU, signed digitally on June 18 by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump, focuses on terminating military operations and preventing future military actions or threats of force.
In response to the reopening of the waterway under the US-Iran agreement, Iran has introduced new regulations for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Ships are now required to register in advance, obtain permits, and secure insurance before entering this crucial energy shipping route. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), a new entity established by Iran, is overseeing the implementation of these regulations.
Following the restoration of commercial shipping through the strategic passage after months of conflict, the US forces have ceased blocking maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports. The US Central Command confirmed the lifting of the blockade and stated that American warships will monitor compliance with the agreement to ensure its full implementation.
