Iran closes Strait of Hormuz again after death of 16 people in Israeli strikes on Lebanon; what Netanyahu said?
Iran has once again closed the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Joint Military Command announced on state television that the move was prompted by ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon.
A peace agreement had been signed between the US and Iran on the night of June 17. The agreement included conditions to open the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks in Lebanon. However, Israel continued its strikes in Lebanon even after the peace deal was signed.
Subsequently, at Trump's initiative, a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon was announced on the night of June 19. Yet, hostilities between the two sides resumed just eight hours after the announcement. The Israeli military launched drone and artillery strikes on the Nabatiyeh area, resulting in the deaths of at least 16 people.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has stated that the Strait of Hormuz has been closed to all ships. The Navy cited allegations of ceasefire violations by the US and Israel as the reason for this move.
Issuing a stern warning to all ships, the IRGC said, "Do not come near the Strait of Hormuz, or your safety will be at risk."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will not compromise on its security. He affirmed that Israel would continue its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.
Recently, a 'Memorandum of Understanding' was digitally signed between Iran and the United States.
This 14-point MoU included provisions such as opening the Strait of Hormuz, a ceasefire on all fronts—including Lebanon—and further talks regarding nuclear programs.
The first paragraph of the Iran-US agreement states that the US and Iran will halt military operations on "all fronts"—including Lebanon and their respective allies—"immediately and permanently."