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Iran says Strait of Hormuz restrictions remain despite Trump claim of lifted blockade
Iran says Strait of Hormuz restrictions remain despite Trump claim of lifted blockade
Tehran, May 31 :
Despite US President Donald Trump's claim that he had lifted a naval blockade on Iran, Iranian ships are still being barred from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported.
Citing Iranian sailors, the report said the restrictions remain in place and vessels continue to receive warnings from US Central Command not to enter the area.
Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Friday that the US naval blockade "will now be lifted."
In the same post, he outlined conditions for a possible deal with Iran, saying Tehran must agree never to obtain a nuclear weapon. He also said the Strait of Hormuz should be "immediately open," with unrestricted shipping in both directions, and that any water mines would be removed, Xinhua news agency reported.
Trump added that Iran's enriched uranium stockpiles would be located, in coordination with Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency, and destroyed.
Iran has said nuclear issues are not part of the current stage of talks.
Iran's main military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said on Saturd…
U.S. port blockade in effect; Trump dismissive of new talks - NBC News
U.S. port blockade in effect; Trump dismissive of new talks - NBC News
EVENT ENDED
Last updated April 14, 2026, 1:35 AM EDT
U.S. blockade of Iran's ports goes into effect; Trump says he doesn't care about new talks
Iran's armed forces accused the U.S. of "piracy" ahead of the planned blockade, which comes after marathon weekend talks ended without a peace deal.
U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports goes into effect
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What to know
IRAN BLOCKADE:
The
U.S. military blockade of all of Iran's ports and coastal areas
went into effect at 10 a.m. ET. According to the U.S. military, it will allow ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz if they are traveling between non-Iranian ports.
President Donald Trump
had said earlier that the U.S. Navy would prevent ships from passing through the key waterway.
TEHRAN BLASTS ‘PIRACY’:
Iran's armed forces accused the U.S. of "piracy" and said the country's ports are "either for everyone or for no one."
OIL PRICES SURGE
:
The price of oil climbed overnight to well above $100 a barrel
and stocks fell as traffic th…
Iran threatens to turn naval blockade into 'another defeat ... - WION
Iran threatens to turn naval blockade into 'another defeat ... - WION
Trump said the blockade had strengthened Washington's leverage over Tehran, but Ghalibaf called it a ceasefire violation and signalled distrust of the United States.
Iran will overcome the United States' naval blockade of its ports, Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on Monday, while accusing Washington of using maritime restrictions as part of a broader campaign against Tehran and linking them to the latest escalation in the region.
“We will turn the naval blockade — which is a war crime and part of the enemy’s conspiracy — into yet another defeat for them through comprehensive planning,” the semi-official Tasnim News Agency quoted Ghalibaf as saying.
His remarks came after US President Donald Trump said earlier in the day that the blockade, introduced in April, would remain in force until a final peace agreement is reached between the two sides.
Trump recently argued that the restrictions had given Washington greater leverage over Iran than military action. Ghalibaf, however, described the blockade as a violation of the temporary ceasefire and expressed a lack of trust in the American si…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran studying deal to halt war as stalemate persists - AL-MONITOR
Iran studying deal to halt war as stalemate persists - AL-MONITOR
Iran studying deal to halt war as stalemate persists
By Jana Choukeir
Jun 2, 2026
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People walk past an anti-U.S. mural on a street in Tehran, Iran, June 1, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS — Majid Asgaripour
By Jana Choukeir
DUBAI, June 2 (Reuters) - Iran is reviewing a proposed agreement with the United States to halt the war between the two countries, Iran's Mehr news reported on Tuesday, after U.S. President Donald Trump said talks to reach a deal were continuing.
More than three months after the U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran, the conflict has hardened into a stalemate while largely indirect talks to negotiate an interim deal have proved inconclusive, leaving the Strait of Hormuz largely shut.
Iran has not yet responded to a proposed final text of the temporary deal, and was taking a "stern" approach given what it sees as a history of U.S. non-compliance and longstanding mistrust, Mehr cited a source as saying.
Trump said on Monday that negotiations with Iran were continuing and there would be a deal to extend the ceasefire and reopen the Stra…
Iran offers a 30-day Hormuz reopening plan as US-Iran standoff ...
Iran offers a 30-day Hormuz reopening plan as US-Iran standoff ...
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Iran offers a 30-day Hormuz reopening plan as US-Iran standoff continues
Iranian negotiator says Tehran could delay reopening of the vital shipping lane until US threats are removed
BY
ARUN JAYAN
PUBLISHED
1 DAY AGO
A patrol boat navigates the waters of the Strait of Hormuz near Bandar Abbas, Iran, as anchored cargo ships wait offshore on Saturday, May 2, 2026 (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
TEHRAN, IRAN: Iran could impose a 30-day waiting period before reopening the strategically crucial
Strait of Hormuz
under its administration, according to a member of the country's negotiating team, adding a new layer of uncertainty.
Majid Shakeri, who participated in recent talks in Islamabad, said Tehran is considering a proposal that would link the reopening of the strait to the removal of perceived threats from the United States and its allies.
“Under this proposal, Tehran should announce that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under Iranian administration will only be possible 30 days after all threats from the United States and its allies have been removed,” Shakeri told Iran's semi-official Fars news ag…
Distrust lingers despite US-Iran peace deal framework, Trump's claims ...
Distrust lingers despite US-Iran peace deal framework, Trump's claims ...
© Copyright 2026 The Week Online. All rights reserved.
The newly announced peace framework between the US and Iran may have eased tensions and paved the way for the resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, but deep mistrust of Washington continues to persist in Iran
The Week News Desk
Updated- June 15, 2026 09:07 PM IST
2 minuteRead
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The US and Iran have announced a framework deal to end their 107-day conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with signs of shipping activity gradually resuming in the strategic waterway
Despite the agreement, Iran has stressed that deep mistrust of the United States remains
Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains far below pre-conflict levels
Despite the announcement of a peace framework between the US and Iran, deep mistrust continue in Iran, even as limited shipping activity resumed through the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump claimed on Truth Social that ships had started moving through the waterway after the two sides finalised a deal aimed at ending the 107-day conflict and reopening the strait.
"Ships are startin…
Ships in Persian Gulf quietly coordinate with U.S. Navy to exit Hormuz
Ships in Persian Gulf quietly coordinate with U.S. Navy to exit Hormuz
Nearly 40 ships previously stranded in the Persian Gulf have exited through the Strait of Hormuz over the past three weeks as vessels quietly coordinate with the U.S. Navy, according to Lloyd's List Intelligence.
Some shipowners are submitting their transit plans to the Naval Cooperation and Guidance for Shipping group in Bahrain, said Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd's List, in a briefing Thursday.
The assumption is that the U.S. Navy is providing limited assurances that it will intercept incoming threats against commercial ships, Meade said.
"Transit decisions remain solely with ship operators," Meade said. "Industry operators tell us that they are not being centrally coordinated."
U.S. forces are not escorting commercial ships through Hormuz, a defense official told CNBC. They are communicating and coordinating with ships that seek to freely and safely transit the strait, the official said.
Ship transits through Hormuz still remain way below prewar levels. Traffic through the sea lane fell to the lowest point of the Iran war in May, according to Lloyd's List.
President Donald Trump in early May …
Iran Is Winning the Battle of Hormuz | World News
Iran Is Winning the Battle of Hormuz | World News
The best selling point for President Trump’s memorandum of understanding with Iran was that at least it opened the Strait of Hormuz. Well, now the regime is trying to nullify those terms by using force against commercial vessels, Gulf states and U.S. bases. All of this violates the deal and calls into question why Mr. Trump signed it.
On Thursday Iran struck a container ship transiting the Strait with a drone. The U.S. responded on Friday with strikes on Iranian missile and drone storage sites and coastal radars. It announced the strike after markets closed as if to demonstrate the economic constraints on U.S. military action.
Iran then hit a tanker carrying Qatari crude. The U.S. retaliated again against Iranian military sites and has escorted oil tankers with heavy air cover. Iran then fired drones and missiles at civilian targets and U.S. bases in Bahrain and Kuwait.
“It is very possible that they will never learn,” Mr. Trump wrote of Iran’s regime on Saturday night. Or is it U.S. decision makers who never learn? Vice President JD Vance has been touting Iran’s “transformed” Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leaders ready to “…
THE US engaged diplomatically MILITARY in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
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Tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea (AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Iran will immediately take steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a tentative deal with the US to end the war is signed and will be allowed to sell its oil without restrictions, according to leaked copies of an interim agreement that officials say broadly matches the document.
The accord, due to be formally signed in a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday, lays out that the US would secure at least 300 billion dollars (£223 billion) to rebuild Iran after the war.
And it would work to end all American and United Nations sanctions imposed on Tehran if a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear programme is reached.
The US agreement to allow Iran to sell its oil freely immediately and the offer to eventually lift all sanctions re…
UK-France Strait of Hormuz mission fills US mine clearance gap, says Nato chief
UK-France Strait of Hormuz mission fills US mine clearance gap, says Nato chief
By PA News Agency
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Vessels have started moving through the Strait of Hormuz following the signing of an initial deal (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
A UK and French-led mission to ensure the safety of shipping with the reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz waterway fills a gap in US capability, the head of Nato has said.
While very strong the US military lacked mine clearance assets, which could be provided by Britain and its European allies, according to the alliance’s secretary general Mark Rutte.
Ending Tehran’s stranglehold on the strategic waterway, which has disrupted global oil and gas supplies and driven up fuel and food prices, had been a key demand in peace negotiations.
US vice president JD Vance said millions of barrels of oil had been transported through the Gulf channel in the wake of Donald Trump signing an interim deal with Iran to end the nea…
US pushes Iran to drop Hormuz toll for nuclear deal, sanctions in Doha ...
US pushes Iran to drop Hormuz toll for nuclear deal, sanctions in Doha ...
As the United States and Iran concluded a round of indirect talks in Qatar's Doha, the negotiations mainly focused on the Strait of Hormuz and Tehran's demand seeking to charge tolls through the waterway.
While there was no word from both sides on whether there had been progress towards achieving lasting peace, the negotiators were still arguing over terms they had agreed to in the 14-point memorandum of understanding they signed last month, Axios reported.
According to sources cited by Axios, among the main issues discussed were the strait, Iranian frozen assets and the ceasefire in Lebanon. In the context of the Strait of Hormuz, US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner tried to convey to the Iranian side that their demand for tolls in the strait could derail the entire US-Iran deal, which could be far more lucrative for Tehran.
Also Read | War to resume again? Trump briefed on ‘finishing the job’; Netanyahu warns Iran
“The US message to Iran was ‘Think bigger,’” a US official said, according to Axios. The official added that the sums Iran would generate by selling oil and other resources freely – af…
MINIST demanded ISRAEL in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
IRAN engaged diplomatically THE US in North Dakota, United States
‘Positive progress’ in US-Iran talks despite Strait of Hormuz strikes
By PA News Agency
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The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Indirect talks between the US and Iran made “positive progress”, according to mediators following recent clashes over the Strait of Hormuz.
The strategic waterway remains a flashpoint in the fragile interim ceasefire brokered between the two sides and was the cause of the recent exchange of fire after a cargo ship was attacked.
Donald Trump has claimed the number of ships now using the channel is “setting records”, although maritime monitoring indicated vessels making the passage still remained well below pre-conflict levels, amid ongoing security concerns.
Ending Tehran’s stranglehold on the sea route, which disrupted global oil and gas supplies and drove up fuel and food prices, had been a key demand in negotiations.
But the initial deal reached between the US and Iran – known as …
ISLAMABAD made statement UNITED STATES in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Residents swim and play in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz while cargo ships and commercial vessels lie anchored in the distance off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 10, 2026.
(Razieh Poudat / Associated Press)
By
Munir Ahmed, Collin Binkley and Russ Bynum
June 12, 2026
8:58 AM PT
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The U.S. and Iran are nearing a landmark agreement to end months of war, require Tehran to dismantle its nuclear program and halt support for militant groups, officials say.
The emerging deal would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, ease sanctions and release frozen Iranian assets, potentially calming energy markets roiled by blocked Gulf shipments and a U.S. naval blockade.
Brokered largely by Pakistan with backing from regional powers, the tentative truce faces hurdles from Israel’s hard line on Hezbollah and President Trump’s shifting threats amid a fragile cease-fire.
ISLAMABAD —
The United States and Iran are close to signing an agreement aimed…
Hormuz strait oil traffic down after ceasefire; Hassett cheers even one ...
Hormuz strait oil traffic down after ceasefire; Hassett cheers even one ...
PresidentDonald Trump's top economic advisorKevin Hassettsaid Thursday that getting even oneoil tankerthrough theStrait of Hormuzwould provide a "huge chunk of what's missing" amid a globalsupply crunchcaused by the U.S.-Israel war inIran.
Hassett, director of White House's National Economic Council, made the claim as traffic through the key shipping route remains tightly throttled, despite the U.S. and Iran reaching a fragile ceasefire that ostensibly involves reopening the strait.
More than 100 commercial vessels, mostly oil tankers, were passing through the strait each day before the war started on Feb. 28, according to data from Kpler.
Matt Smith, Kpler's lead oil analyst, said just two tankers — one of which was Iranian — and a handful of bulk carriers have transited the waterway since the two-week ceasefire was announced Tuesday evening.
That's within the meager range of traffic that has been seen throughout the war, providing Iran with a key source of leverage even as it's weathered punishing military strikes from the U.S. and Israel.
The blockage of the strait, which normally ferries 20% of th…
U.S. lifts blockade on Iranian ports as 60-day clock for a final deal ...
U.S. lifts blockade on Iranian ports as 60-day clock for a final deal ...
Middle East conflict
By
NPR Politics and Policy Desk
Jun 18, 2026 5:28pm (NPR)
In this picture obtained from Iran's ISNA news agency on Thursday, vessels are seen anchored in Bandar Abbas along the Strait of Hormuz. Image: Amirhossein Khorgooei/ISNA/AFP via Getty Images
U.S. forces have lifted their blockade on ships entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas,
U.S. Central Command announced
Thursday.
The move is one of the conditions in a ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran while the countries move into the next phase of negotiations over the next 60 days.
Iran, for its part, has committed to letting oil tankers move safely through the Strait of Hormuz, where roughly 20% of the world's oil transited before the war began. The agreement, signed Wednesday, states that Iran will allow commercial vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz "with no charge for 60 days only," after which "future administration and maritime services" will be determined by Iran along with Oman and other Persian Gulf states. Iranian officials have suggested they may impose "service fees" on ships, which industry analys…
Iran Reimposes Strait of Hormuz Restrictions Amid US Naval Blockade ...
Iran Reimposes Strait of Hormuz Restrictions Amid US Naval Blockade ...
Tehran tightens control of key oil chokepoint as US naval blockade persists
Iran has said it is reinstating strict controls over the Strait of Hormuz, reversing an earlier move to ease transit as tensions with the United States escalate over an ongoing naval blockade.
Iran’s central military command said on Saturday it would return to “strict management” of the strategic waterway, accusing Washington of violating commitments by maintaining its naval blockade on vessels to and from Iranian ports.
In a statement aired on state television, officials said the decision followed what they described as the US failing to uphold terms linked to ongoing negotiations.
“The situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain strictly controlled until the United States restores freedom of movement for all vessels visiting Iran,” the statement said.
US President Donald Trump said he may not extend a tentative ceasefire with Iran if talks fail to produce an agreement by Wednesday, raising the possibility of renewed military escalation.
He also reiterated that the US naval blockade would remain in place until a broader deal i…
Iran's economy has been battered. Its leaders still think Trump will blink first
Iran's economy has been battered. Its leaders still think Trump will blink first
Two regional officials say that Iran has offered to end its chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the U.S. lifting its blockade on the country and an end to the war. A standoff remains on the strait, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which a fifth of all traded oil and natural gas passes, as Iran has restricted movement through it and the U.S. enforced a blockade of Iranian ports.
Women sit in front of a mosque around the traditional grand bazaar of Tehran, Iran, March 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)
A boat sails past a tanker anchored on the Strait of Hormuz off the coast Qeshm island, Iran, April 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Asghar Besharati, File)
People conduct their businesses around the traditional grand bazaar of Tehran, Iran, March 29, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)
A thick plume of smoke rises from an oil storage facility hit by a U.S.-Israeli strike in Tehran, Iran, March 8, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File)
In this photo released by Tasnim News Agency, a Revolutionary Guard Navy (IRGC) speedboat approaches the cargo ship Epaminondas during what state media …
Lebanese president says Iran using Lebanon as leverage in US talks
Lebanese president says Iran using Lebanon as leverage in US talks
A US naval force that had sought to enter the Persian Gulf dispersed after operations by Iran's navy, Iranian state television reported on Friday, citing satellite imagery from the past 48 hours.
A state TV correspondent said the images showed US vessels that had been heading toward the Persian Gulf had scattered, describing the development as the result of action by the Iranian navy.
Separately, the naval arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps said it had instructed commercial vessels carrying essential goods such as fuel and food to notify Iranian authorities before transiting the Strait of Hormuz so their security could be ensured and passage plans arranged after obtaining permission.
A source close to Iran's negotiating team rejected a report on Friday that Tehran had agreed to transfer part of its enriched uranium stockpile to a third country, calling the report inaccurate.
The source told Fars News Agency that no agreement had been reached on moving any portion of Iran's enriched uranium inventory abroad, dismissing the report by Al Arabiya as false.
Access by IAEA inspectors to Iran's nuclear fac…
A group of people stands in shallow water as a cargo ship appears anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
A group of people stands in shallow water as a cargo ship appears anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Tuesday, June 30, 2026.
Credit: AP/Amirhosein Khorgooi
By
The Associated Press
Updated July 1, 2026 8:10 am
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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz while using a route not approved by Iran, state television in Tehran reported Wednesday. The vessel was identified as a foreign container ship, with no other details.
The report appeared aimed at underlining Tehran’s claims to control the strait, which the world has long considered an international waterway. It saw a fifth of all oil and natural gas pass through it in peacetime.
Iran has used its ability to choke off the waterway as a key source of leverage since the war began, disrupting global markets for energy and other critical goods.
The report came as U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, U.S. President Donald Trump's son-in-law, were in Doha, Qatar, for talks over reaching a permanent end to the Iran war. Iran's top negotiator, Kazem Gharibabadi, traveled to Qatar with a team as well.
Technical talks between diplomats began Wednesday in Qatar, said two reg…
MINIST rejected LEBANON in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
UNITED STATES consulted UNITED STATES in Evian-Les-Bains, RhôAlpes, France
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
By PA News Agency
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Tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea (AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Iran will immediately take steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a tentative deal with the US to end the war is signed and will be allowed to sell its oil without restrictions, according to leaked copies of an interim agreement that officials say broadly matches the document.
The accord, due to be formally signed in a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday, lays out that the US would secure at least 300 billion dollars (£223 billion) to rebuild Iran after the war.
And it would work to end all American and United Nations sanctions imposed on Tehran if a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear programme is reached.
The US agreement to allow Iran to sell its oil freely immediately and the offer to eventually lift all sanctions re…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 3:50 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press …
PARLIAMENT consulted IRANIAN in Minab, Sistan va Baluchestan, Iran
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Oil Crisis Tracker: Hormuz Closure Auto Industry Impact | GCBC
Oil Crisis Tracker: Hormuz Closure Auto Industry Impact | GCBC
Daily Tracker — Day 103
Last updated: June 12, 2026 at 4:15 AM MT
Drones downed over the strait;
oil at a two-month low.
Day 103 — ~7,000 killed, 4.4M+ displaced.
Days of Closure
103
Strait closed since Mar 2
Killed
~7,000
Iran + Lebanon health ministries; independent counts higher
Displaced
4.4M+
UNHCR / IOM — Iran + Lebanon
Est. Damage to Iran
~$144B
FDD estimate; claims up to $270B
GAS
$4.13
DIESEL
$5.44
BRENT
$89.25
WTI
$83.80
CA GAS
$5.81
NATGAS
$3.10
SPR
349.2M
TARIFFS
DAY 72
Documented Impact · Updated Daily
The Toll
What the conflict has verifiably cost — in lives, money, and environment. Every figure carries its source. Counts lag events and are not real-time.
Human Toll
Killed in Iran
3,468+
Iran Health Ministry; independent monitor HRANA counts 3,636 incl. 1,701 civilians
Wounded in Iran
26,500+
Iran Health Ministry
Killed in Lebanon
3,526+
Lebanese Health Ministry, Mar 2–Jun 6; 10,733+ wounded
Killed in Israel (Jun 7–8 barrage)
5
Israeli authorities via NPR/PBS; cumulative war total not publicly consolidated
Displaced within Iran
~3.2M
UNHCR — more than 3% of the population
Displaced in Lebanon
1.2M+
IOM / …
US disputes Iran's claims Hormuz closed, negotiations to ... - Bangkok Post
US disputes Iran's claims Hormuz closed, negotiations to ... - Bangkok Post
World
US disputes Iran's claims Hormuz closed, negotiations to resume Sunday
Central Command says 55 merchant ships transited strait on Saturday
PUBLISHED : 21 Jun 2026 at 10:14
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The Iran delegation led by chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi arrives at Zurich International Airport on Saurday. Negotiations with the US were due to resume on Sunday. (Photo: Reuters)
ZURICH - Negotiators from the United States and Iran were set to resume peace talks in Switzerland on Sunday, even as US officials disputed Iranian claims about closing the key Strait of Hormuz.
High-level officials from Iran arrived in Switzerland for peace talks with the US, Iranian state media reported, as US Vice President JD Vance departed Washington for meetings that Pakistan said will begin on Sunday.
Although the US and Iran had agreed to a 60-day ceasefire while negotiations take place, Tehran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on Saturday declared the Strait of Hormuz shut, though the US military said commercial vessels had continued operating in the waterway.
Th…
Iran strikes vessel in Strait of Hormuz amid debate over "transit fees"
Iran strikes vessel in Strait of Hormuz amid debate over "transit fees"
Follow
updates on the war in the Middle East for Friday, June 26, here
. See earlier developments below.
What to know about the Iran war:
A cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz was
struck by Iran's Revolutionary Guards
on Thursday near the Oman coast, according to a U.S. official. The vessel suffered damage to its bridge, but no one was injured, the U.K. Maritime Trade Operations Centre said.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio again rejected the idea of Iran charging vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Oman said any system it creates with Iran to manage maritime traffic will not involve fees, but Iran was less definitive, saying it would work with Oman "to define future administration and maritime services in Strait of Hormuz."
The price of Brent crude, considered the international standard for the cost of oil, hovered around $75 a barrel on Thursday, briefly dropping in the morning to $72, its closest to its $70 pre-war level in almost four months.
New Updates
1:58 AM / June 26, 2026
"Very strong" nuclear verification needed in Iran after war, U.N. official says
A "very strong" verification system is needed …
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
The Strait Of Hormuz Gamble: How A Blockade Is Reshaping Global Power
The Strait Of Hormuz Gamble: How A Blockade Is Reshaping Global Power
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As of May 2026, the United States is pursuing aggressive maritime enforcement, particularly a blockade of Iranian ports, that both helps and pressures its allies, creating intense strategic friction. While the United States frames its naval actions as protecting freedom of navigation and choking Iran’s ability to fund regional proxies, the unilateral nature of these actions has forced allies into difficult positions, often without formal backing.
The United States Navy is countering Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint handling roughly 20% of global oil trade. The United States has provided military assets, including minesweepers, to clear waterways and escort commercial vessels linked to Gulf allies. By targeting Houthi capabilities in the Red Sea and Iranian ships, the United States aims to neutralise forces threatening regional security, directly aiding Israel.
However, the United States is urging Gulf states and European partners to assist with the blockade, creating a high risk of retaliation. Some allies, like Saudi Arabia, prefer diplomacy and fear broader conflict. The blo…
Iran reasserts control over the Strait of Hormuz | Morning Star
Iran reasserts control over the Strait of Hormuz | Morning Star
IRAN reasserted control over the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, warning foreign commercial and military vessels that they would be targeted if they fail to comply with regulations governing passage through the waterway.
This comes as a ceasefire deal to end the illegal and unprovoked war unleashed by the United States and Israel on Iran remained in limbo as a decision over the truce was awaited from US President Donald Trump.
In a statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said on Saturday that “the management of the Strait of Hormuz is exercised with full authority by the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
“All ships, commercial vessels and tankers are only required to travel through the designated routes and obtain permission from the IRGC Navy.”
It added: “Any violation of these regulations will seriously jeopardise the security of their traffic.”
Iran also issued a warning to foreign military forces operating in the area, saying any attempt to interfere with maritime management or shipping movements would trigger a response.
Mr Trump met his advisers on Friday and said a “final determi…
IRAN consulted PARLIAMENT in Minab, Sistan va Baluchestan, Iran
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Ship runs aground in Strait of Hormuz as US, Iran to hold indirect ...
Ship runs aground in Strait of Hormuz as US, Iran to hold indirect ...
Technical talks continue as Tehran warns it will respond if negotiations collapse.
Israel's defence minister said Wednesday that Israeli forces would remain in self-proclaimed "security zones" established in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza, without any timeline for withdrawal.
"The IDF will remain in the security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza indefinitely in order to protect our residents and communities from jihadist elements," Israel Katz said.
"We will not withdraw from the security zones," Katz said at function held in honour of Israeli soldiers killed during the 2006 war in Lebanon.
Katz also reiterated an earlier warning to Iran, saying the Islamic republic would be struck with "full force" if it attacked Israel over its operations in Lebanon.
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz after not running Iran's approved route through the water, Iranian state television reported Wednesday. The report identified the affected vessel as a foreign container ship, but offered no other immediate details.
Iranian state TV said the ship "ran aground with its cargo because of shallow waters along the route it had c…
Iran-US war latest: Tehran declares Strait of Hormuz is closed after ...
Iran-US war latest: Tehran declares Strait of Hormuz is closed after ...
Iran's supreme leader says Trump made deal 'out of desperation' as US lifts naval blockade
Iran has claimed that it will close the Strait of Hormuz to tankers, citing alleged violations of the ceasefire by the US and Israel, Tehran’s semi-official Mehr news agency reported.
However a spokesperson for the US military has said that traffic continues to flow through the critical waterway and the US is monitoring the situation to ensure that continues.
The top joint military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said earlier on Saturday that the closure was the "first step" in response to what it described as breaches of commitments.
It warned further measures would be taken if the “aggression” continued. Earlier on Saturday, 16 were killed in Israeli strikes on Lebanon.
US vice president JD Vance, however, has said there is not yet any evidence that Iran is closing the critical waterway, through which one fifth of the world’s oil supply typically flows.
Central Command spokesperson Navy Captain Tim Hawkins said the US were “monitoring the situation” to ensure that ships could pass.
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LEBANON appealed IRANIAN in Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
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Tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea (AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Iran will immediately take steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a tentative deal with the US to end the war is signed and will be allowed to sell its oil without restrictions, according to leaked copies of an interim agreement that officials say broadly matches the document.
The accord, due to be formally signed in a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday, lays out that the US would secure at least 300 billion dollars (£223 billion) to rebuild Iran after the war.
And it would work to end all American and United Nations sanctions imposed on Tehran if a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear programme is reached.
The US agreement to allow Iran to sell its oil freely immediately and the offer to eventually lift all sanctions re…
Despite US Help, Little Oil Has Gone Through Strait of Hormuz
Despite US Help, Little Oil Has Gone Through Strait of Hormuz
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Even as the United States tries to negotiate an end to the war with Iran and open the Strait of Hormuz, President Trump said the U.S. military had been helping ships and oil move through the crucial waterway.
But while the United States appears to be doing more to get ships through the strait, its efforts have not led to a big recovery in shipping traffic.
The number of ships passing through the strait every day is still far lower than it was before the war with Iran began. And the volumes of oil apparently going through are also well below prewar totals, according to independent tanker tracking firms.
The conflict escalated this week before the United States and Iran appeared to move closer to reaching a cease-fire deal that would open the strait and end the U.S. naval blockade on Iran.
Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister, said in a live televised address to the country on Friday that the agreement with the United States was in its final stages. Mr. Araghchi said that although all commercial ships would be guaranteed safe passage through the strait, Tehran would maintain its co…
Iran gets immediate oil export rights under Trump deal | Israel Hayom
Iran gets immediate oil export rights under Trump deal | Israel Hayom
A gas flare on an oil production platform in the Soroush oil fields is seen alongside an Iranian flag in Iran | File photo: REUTERS/Raheb Homavandi
Iranwill be permitted to resume oil and fuel exports the moment the ceasefire agreement is signed this week,The Wall Street Journalreported, granting Tehran an early economic incentive to end its war with Israel. Sources familiar with the deal toldThe Wall StreetJournalthatthe sanctions waivers take effect immediately upon signing and extend to the financial and logistical infrastructure supporting those sales, including banking, shipping, and insurance services.
The nonprofit United Against Nuclear Iran reported that an Iranian supertanker loaded with crude oil had departed the port of Chabahar, sailed past the US naval blockade, and was making its way out of the Gulf of Oman on Tuesday with its transponder active – the first such movement since Washington imposed its blockade in April.
A senior US official toldThe Wall StreetJournalonTuesday that while Iran would receive upfront sanctions relief on oil exports, sustained economic benefits would remain condition…
Strait of Hormuz attacks: US strikes Iran, revokes oil licence amid ...
Strait of Hormuz attacks: US strikes Iran, revokes oil licence amid ...
The US military launched fresh strikes on Iran early Wednesday, hours after three merchant ships were hit in the Strait of Hormuz, in the latest exchange that has raised new doubts over an interim deal meant to stop the fighting between the two countries. US officials said the operation was expected to hit a range of military sites and port facilities and could last for hours.
The developments are likely to complicate efforts to fully reopen the strait, roll back Tehran's disputed nuclear programme and secure a permanent end to the war that began on February 28. They also came after the United States revoked a licence that had allowed the sale of Iranian oil under the interim arrangement.
In a statement posted on social media, US Central Command said American forces launched the strikes "to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway". One US official said the military was targeting Iranian air defence systems, coastal surveillance systems, ground-to-air missiles, and launch sites for anti-ship cruise missiles and drones. Irania…
Iran strikes vessel, pausing UN efforts to evacuate ships from Hormuz
Iran strikes vessel, pausing UN efforts to evacuate ships from Hormuz
Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, on Thursday.
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Iran struck a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, forcing a
pause on evacuations of stranded seafarers
and demonstrating its continued ability to restrict the critical waterway,
despite the agreement reached last week with the United States.
A US official told CNN the vessel was attacked by an Iranian drone,
but did not provide further details.
Another US official said on Friday that they are “aware” of the reports and are “looking into them.”
“President Trump has been clear that Iran cannot subvert the free flow of traffic in the Strait,” the official added.
President Donald Trump, in a social media post Friday, called Iran’s strike on the vessel a “foolish violation” of the agreement to end the war with Tehran, but offered little indication the episode would prompt a return to active hostilities.
While Iran has not claimed responsibility, Thursday’s attack came hours after its powerful revolutionary guards wa…
Iran Shuts Hormuz Completely: How Long Can World Afford It?
Iran Shuts Hormuz Completely: How Long Can World Afford It?
The United States and Iran have moved another step closer to a wider regional conflict, with fresh American strikes on Iranian targets triggering Tehran to announce a full closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy corridors. The move is bound to have a large-scale implication not only for these two nations but countries across the globe.
The latest escalation began after the
US military launched strikes
on Iran for the second consecutive day. The attacks came just hours after US President Donald Trump publicly threatened further military action while simultaneously urging Tehran to return to negotiations.
Breaking It Down
What are the latest restrictions on ships in the Strait of Hormuz?
How has the US responded to Iran's blockade of the Strait?
What impact does the Strait's closure have on global oil supply?
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US Launches Fresh Strikes, Iran Retaliates Targeting American Military Bases in Bahrain and Kuwait
"We’re going to hit them again hard today," Trump told reporters at the Oval Office.
The US decision to carry out additional strikes follow…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Trump's abrupt U-turn on a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz came ...
Trump's abrupt U-turn on a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz came ...
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May 6, 2026, 6:02 PM EDT
By
Mosheh Gains
,
Courtney Kube
,
Andrea Mitchell
,
Natasha Lebedeva
and
Daniel Arkin
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s
abrupt reversal on his plan to help ships
go through the Strait of Hormuz came after a key Gulf ally suspended the U.S. military’s ability to use its bases and airspace to carry out the operation, according to two U.S. officials.
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Trump surprised Gulf allies by announcing “Project Freedom” on social media Sunday afternoon, the officials said, angering leadership in Saudi Arabia. In response, the Kingdom informed the U.S. it would not allow the U.S. military to fly aircraft from Prince Sultan Airbase southeast of Riyadh or fly through Saudi airspace to support the effort, the officials said.
A call between Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman did not resolve the issue, the two U.S. officials said, forcing the president to pause P…
Shippers remain cautious on Hormuz strait transit after US and Iran agree deal
Shippers remain cautious on Hormuz strait transit after US and Iran agree deal
<p>By Kentaro Okasaka, Jeslyn Lerh, Emily Chow and Stine Jacobsen</p><p>June 15 (Reuters) - Shippers in Asia and Europe said confidence in resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz could take weeks to rebuild and navigation will only restart once safety is assured, after the U.S. and Iran agreed on a framework deal to reopen the waterway.</p><p>U.S. and Iranian officials are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding to end their war, halt the U.S. blockade of Iran and reopen the strait on Friday. Global oil prices fell about 5% on Monday in response.</p>
MINIST demanded ISRAEL in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Unattributed party reduced relations OMAN in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Hassan Ammar
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran to define Hormuz future with Oman, Gulf states: U.S. officials
Iran to define Hormuz future with Oman, Gulf states: U.S. officials
Iran and Omanwill define how theStrait of Hormuz is administeredin discussion with other Persian Gulf states under theagreement to end the warin the Middle East, senior U.S. officials told reporters Wednesday.
Tehran and Washington are expected to formally sign amemorandum of understandingto end the war on Friday in Geneva. The U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the terms that hadn't been made public, read the contents of the MOU to reporters on a conference call.
Under the MOU, Tehran will allow the safe passage of commercial ships without tolls for 60 days only. Iran will then "conduct dialog" with Oman "to define the future administration and maritime services" in Hormuz in discussion with the other Gulf states, according to the agreement.
PresidentDonald Trumphas repeatedly insisted that the strait be un-tolled after the war ends. There were no tolls imposed by Iran or any other entity before Trump began the war.
The discussions on to how administer Hormuz should be "in line with the applicable international law and the sovereign rights of coastal states of the Strait of Hormuz,…
SWITZERLAND consulted UNITED STATES in Geneva, Genè, Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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AP
Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:37 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV reported the IRGC Nav…
Trump threatens to charge US tolls in Strait of Hormuz if final Iran deal not ...
Trump threatens to charge US tolls in Strait of Hormuz if final Iran deal not ...
Relatives of missed victims weep, as they gather at the site of destroyed buildings that were hit in an Israeli airstrike in Qannarit village, southern Lebanon, Saturday, June 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Mohammed Zaatari)
TYRE, Lebanon — Iran on Saturday said that it closed the Strait of Hormuz because of Israel’s attacks in Lebanon and warned that while negotiators were going to Switzerland for talks with the United States on their interim agreement, not much likely will happen if the fighting doesn’t stop.
U.S. President Donald Trump, in response, threatened to impose U.S. tolls in the crucial waterway if a final deal with Iran isn’t reached in 60 days, saying the money would be for “services rendered as the Guardian Angel to the countries of the Middle East.” His social media post underscored that the agreement calls for toll-free travel for 60 days.
The announcements indicated a rough start to technical-level U.S.-Iran talks that key mediator Pakistan said will begin Sunday, with Qatari mediators also participating.
Iran’s joint military command said the strait was closed because of the U.S. “clear breac…
For Iran, Hormuz Is More a Weakness Than a Weapon - Foreign Affairs
For Iran, Hormuz Is More a Weakness Than a Weapon - Foreign Affairs
For Iran, Hormuz Is More a Weakness Than a Weapon
How a U.S. Blockade Threatens the Regime’s Grip
Miad Maleki
April 15, 2026
At the Strait of Hormuz, off the coast of Oman, April 2026
Reuters
MIAD MALEKI
is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. From 2017 to 2025, he served as Associate Director of the Office of Foreign Assets Control at the U.S. Treasury Department.
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For Iran, Hormuz Is More a Weakness Than a Weapon
How a U.S. Blockade Threatens the Regime’s Grip
Miad Maleki
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Trump says US and Iran to hold fresh talks after strikes strain ceasefire
Trump says US and Iran to hold fresh talks after strikes strain ceasefire
•
Mixed signals on
US-Iran talks:
Iran said that
no negotiation meetings
are scheduled with the US at any level in the coming days, despite President Donald Trump
saying the US will meet with Iran
in Qatar tomorrow.
• In Lebanon:
Fighting between Hezbollah and Israel
continued in Lebanon over the weekend despite a recent agreement between the countries. Iran has demanded a
full withdrawal of Israeli forces
from Lebanon as part of a final deal with the US.
• Strait of Hormuz:
Marine traffic through the strait
has modestly picked up
in the last 36 hours, according to ship tracking data. A growing number of vessels are also using a route close to the Omani coast, threatening Tehran’s leverage over the waterway.
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A cargo ship is pictured off coast of the Khor Fakkan Container Terminal along the Gulf of Oman on June 28.
AFP/Getty Images
Over two dozen commercial vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours, according to MarineTraffic data, ahead of US-Iran peace talks that President Donald Trump says are set for tomorrow.
The ships included six tankers an…
Iran proved it can close the Strait of Hormuz, but the U.S. is ...
Iran proved it can close the Strait of Hormuz, but the U.S. is ...
Regardless of a ceasefire deal that reopens the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s demonstrated ability to shut it down will continue to hang over the global economy, rendering the narrow waterway a contested space.
Recommended Video
But while the U.S. has failed to restore freedom of navigation in the strait, a steady drumbeat of messaging recently suggests an effort to dilute Tehran’s new leverage.
Starting late last month, U.S. officials began revealing that more ships had been
quietly crossing the strait
with U.S. assistance through a route along the Omani coast. Subsequent reports pointed to a more robust U.S. role as “
naval overwatch
” offered protection from Iranian attacks.
The traffic uptick still represented just a fraction of pre-war levels, but it gave oil markets more breathing room before inventories reach critical levels while providing the U.S. additional leeway in negotiations with Iran.
On Tuesday, Energy Secretary Chris Wright admitted in congressional testimony that traffic in the strait was rising “very meaningfully” in a military operation that wasn’t being disclosed openly.
Then on Wednesday, Presiden…
Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone ahead of peace talks
Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone ahead of peace talks
The first tankers carrying Iranian oil exited a US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a tracking website said on Wednesday, two days before Washington and Tehran launch talks on an agreed peace deal still scant on details -- including Iran’s nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions.The talks on a final settlement are set to begin Friday at Switzerland’s Burgenstock mountain resort, as news that the Hormuz Strait will reopen sent world oil prices tumbling.For all the latest headlines follow our Google News channel online or via the app.Optimism that the war triggered by the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Tehran might be coming to an end was dented, however, by fresh Israeli strikes on south Lebanon.The TankerTrackers website, which monitors oil shipments and storage, marked Iran’s “first crude oil exports in two months,” citing digital tracking data corroborated by satellite imagery.“At least two National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) VLCC supertankers named DIONA (9569695) and
Iran Claims Strait of Hormuz Will Never Return to Pre-War Status
Iran Claims Strait of Hormuz Will Never Return to Pre-War Status
Ghalibaf stated that Iran demonstrated negotiating leverage during recent talks in Switzerland, claiming Tehran influenced discussions and quickly pushed the US to revise a social media post regarding regional proxy groups.
Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf claimed that the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its pre-war status and asserted that Iran will manage the waterway under international regulations.
The discussions resulted in a 60-day roadmap toward a final agreement.
It also included a Lebanon de-confliction mechanism, and approved relief measures including the release of frozen Iranian funds and eased oil sanctions.
Following diplomatic discussions in Switzerland, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf Monday claimed that the Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre-war operational status, while asserting that Iran will manage the waterway, Iranian state media Press TV reported.
Speaking in an interview to Press TV, Ghalibaf said Iran would exercise control over the passage, while adhering to international regulations. “Everyone should know that the administration of …
MILITARY made statement in Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
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Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
UN agency pauses evacuation of ships through the Strait of Hormuz
UN agency pauses evacuation of ships through the Strait of Hormuz
The United States and Iran reached an initial agreement early Monday to open the Strait of Hormuz and further extend a shaky ceasefire in the Iran war, potentially allowing desperately needed oil and natural gas to reach the global market.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Thursday that the United States is “immediately deploying search and rescue teams, medical resources, and humanitarian assistance to Venezuela.” Concerning the agreement intended to end the war with Iran, Rubio told journalists the U.S. and Gulf allies would ensure there would be no fees charged on ships moving through the strait of Hormuz.
Several tankers have made their way out of the Strait of Hormuz using a new route promoted by a U.N. maritime agency. Iran has threatened vessels using the path, which runs along the coast of Oman.
A man stands beside a fishing pole along the shore as cargo ships and commercial vessels are seen in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 17, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
Tankers and cargo vessels are seen in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait o…
UNITED STATES appealed SWITZERLAND in White House, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
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Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Iran Latest: U.S. and Iranian officials to resume talks, Trump says ...
Iran Latest: U.S. and Iranian officials to resume talks, Trump says ...
What to know about the Iran war today:
Iranian and U.S. officials will meet Tuesday in Qatar, at Tehran's request, President Trump said Monday, without giving any specifics.
Iran had threatened to halt negotiations with the U.S. over the weekend as both sides exchanged strikes, testing the fragile ceasefire.
Iran's president said Monday that the country is set to receive $6 billion in frozen assets currently held in Qatar, according to Iranian state media. The unfreezing of Iran's financial assets is one of the conditions in the
U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding
.
Iranian and Omani officials have met for the first time to discuss management of the Strait of Hormuz, after sending mixed messages about how free and open the vital waterway will be going forward.
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18m ago
Iran alone will demine Strait of Hormuz, says Iranian official
Iran's deputy foreign minister said Monday that Iran alone will undertake the process of removing mines from the Strait of Hormuz in line with the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said on
X
that Iran will not allow any othe…
Iran will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal ...
Iran will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal ...
Iran will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US, agreement shows
Iran will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US, agreement shows
Officials say the text of the memorandum of understanding or MOU will likely be made public today or tomorrow, but the president says it will likely be released after it is officially signed on Friday. Senior Trump administration officials say Iran agreed to destroy and remove its nuclear material, dismantle its nuclear program, stop funding terrorist groups, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, the vital trading route for 1/5 of the world's oil supply. President Donald Trump. Monday the strait will fully be open by Friday. *** senior US official told reporters the MOU includes releasing Iran's frozen funds and easing sanctions if it complies. The agreement that's been signed electronically, according to Vice President JD Vance, is *** very general document that's *** page and *** half and sets up *** framework for the technical negotiation phase. They know that we, we don't want them to fund terrorist organizations. They know t…
Strait of Hormuz Under Iran Control for 30 Days, Warns Araghchi
Strait of Hormuz Under Iran Control for 30 Days, Warns Araghchi
36 minutes ago
World
newsroom
“The
Strait of Hormuz
will remain under the full supervision and control of Iran.” This was stated by Iran’s Foreign Minister,
Abbas Araghchi
, speaking from Baghdad, while warning that any action or interference would delay the reopening of this critical maritime route.
Read also: Araghchi: Nuclear issues on the agenda for second round of US-Iran negotiations — message on Lebanon
Araghchi: The Strait of Hormuz will remain under Iran’s control for the next 30 days
Speaking in detail,
Araghchi stated:
“I briefed my counterpart in Iraq on the latest outcomes of the war imposed on Iran, as well as on developments regarding the memorandum of understanding signed between Iran and the United States.”
“The Strait of Hormuz will remain under the full supervision and management of Iran during the next 30 days, and once all obstacles are removed, the maritime route will be restored. This is what we are working toward,” the Iranian Foreign Minister added.
“This responsibility rests with the Islamic Republic of Iran. There is no other party or state involved in this matter. This is absolutely clear u…
Iran cargo vessels sail through after lifting naval blockade
Iran cargo vessels sail through after lifting naval blockade
https://en.mehrnews.com/news/245373/
Jun 16, 2026, 11:41 AM
News ID
245373
Politics
Politics
Jun 16, 2026, 11:41 AM
Iran cargo vessels sail through after lifting naval blockade
TEHRAN, Jun. 16 (MNA) – At least three Iranian oil tankers and two cargo ships carrying essential goods have successfully broken through the US naval blockade.
The vessels sailed through on Monday evening, marking the first operational victory of the newly finalized memorandum of understanding between Iran and the United States.
The vessels, which had been stranded for months amid the illegal American blockade aval campaign against Iranian shipping, sailed through international waters unimpeded, according to informed maritime sources speaking exclusively to
Press TV.
It came less than 24 hours after the finalized memorandum of understanding (MoU) mediated by Pakistan and Qatar mandated an immediate end to the illegal US naval blockade against Iran as part of a wider cessation of hostilities on all fronts.
The secretariat of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) early on Monday confirmed that Tehran and Washington have finalized the text …
Iran stops negotiations with U.S., vows to 'completely' block Strait of Hormuz: State media
Iran stops negotiations with U.S., vows to 'completely' block Strait of Hormuz: State media
Iraniannegotiators will stop exchanging messages with the U.S. through intermediaries, and Tehran will move to fully close theStrait of Hormuz, in retaliation for ongoingceasefire violations, Iran's state-affiliated news outlet Tasnim said Monday.
The report, in a translated post on the social media site Telegram, homed in on Israel's military operations in Lebanon against the Iran-backed militia Hezbollah.
"No dialogue will take place" until Israel fully withdraws from occupied areas in Lebanon and stops all attacks in both Lebanon and Gaza, per Tasnim.
"Also, the resistance front and Iran have resolved to completely block the Strait of Hormuz and activate other fronts including the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, in order to punish the Zionists and their supporters," the report said.
The Bab el-Mandeb Strait is a trade chokepoint that connects the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
Oil pricesleapt more than 7% higher following Tasnim's report, which signaled a breakdown in efforts to reach a diplomatic end to the war that is now in its fourth month.
PresidentDonald Trumpjust three days earlier said…
Iran claims total oversight and management of Strait of Hormuz
Iran claims total oversight and management of Strait of Hormuz
Credit: Shutterstock
On 28 June, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said in Baghdad that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Iran’s “total oversight and management”for the next 30 days, citing the MoU signed with the US earlier in June.
Araghchi said Iran holds full responsibility for the operation of the strategically vital waterway under a memorandum of understanding with the United States. He urged all parties not to interfere in its management, warning that any unilateral action could escalate tensions and delay the reopening of normal operations. He added that Iran is working to restore the strait to full capacity once current obstacles are removed.
The Iranian foreign minister also briefed his Iraqi counterpart on recent developments, including what he described as the “war imposed on Iran” and progress related to the Iran–US agreement. He emphasized that no other state has authority over the Strait during this period.
The statement comes amid heightened confrontation between Tehran and Washington, including US strikes on Iranian targets following attacks on a commercial vessel, and Iranian retaliation aga…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Hassan Ammar
/
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
Trump's Iran Deal: How Paragraph 5 Has Triggered a Strait of Hormuz Dispute
Trump's Iran Deal: How Paragraph 5 Has Triggered a Strait of Hormuz Dispute
President Trump's agreement with Iran was billed as the fix that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and calm jittery global markets. Three weeks later, ships are still avoiding the waterway, and gunfire has broken out twice. The reason traces back to a single paragraph that both sides read completely differently.
Buried in the deal is Paragraph 5. It says Iran will take steps to restore shipping through Hormuz and then coordinate with Oman on how the strait should be run going forward. It also has Iran promising safe passage for vessels and the removal of hazards like mines.
Breaking It Down
What recent agreement did the US and Iran reach?
How does Iran view its control over the Strait of Hormuz?
What are the implications of Iran's control over shipping fees?
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Trump's team read that as the green light. Once Iran cleared the mines and guaranteed safety, the strait would reopen, full stop. That was supposed to be the deal's signature win.
Iranian hard-liners had a different idea. They latched onto the same wording to argue that Iran, not the U.S. or anyone else, gets final say over the waterwa…
Who is Iran allowing through the Strait of Hormuz? - AL-MONITOR
Who is Iran allowing through the Strait of Hormuz? - AL-MONITOR
From France to India: Who is Iran allowing through the Strait of Hormuz?
Ships from Qatar turned around on Monday after sailing toward the Strait of Hormuz, while a growing number of countries have received permission to traverse the waterway.
Adam Lucente
Apr 6, 2026
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Indian vessel Nanda Devi, carrying liquefied petroleum gas, arrives at Vadinar Port in the Jamnagar district of Gujarat state on March 17, 2026, after Iran allowed it to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a — AFP via Getty Images
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Vessels linked to India, France, Turkey and Iraq are among those that have transited the
Strait of Hormuz
in recent days, signaling limited movement amid the ongoing blockade. Yet dozens of ships remain stranded there as US President Donald Trump reiterated that Iran must reopen the strategic waterway by Tuesday or suffer the consequences.
Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed to most ships in early March after US and Israeli strikes launched the ongoing war. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later said ships from “friendly nations” could cross, naming China, Russia, India, Ir…
Fact Check: Is the claim Iran will offer Hormuz passage to countries ...
Fact Check: Is the claim Iran will offer Hormuz passage to countries ...
HOME
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FACT CHECK
Fact Check: Is the claim Iran will offer Hormuz passage to countries expeling US envoys true?
Trump has acknowledged the spike in oil prices but dismissed it as a temporary consequence of the conflict
BY
SAURAV SURESH
PUBLISHED
MAR 10, 2026
A claim that Iran will allow those countries that expel American and Israeli envoys to pass through the Hormuz Strait sparks speculations (Getty Images)
TEHRAN, IRAN: Amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has prompted Iran to block the
Strait of Hormuz
oil route, a claim has been circulating on social media that the Islamic Republic will allow any country to pass through the strait if it expels the ambassadors of the United States and Israel. Let's fact-check the viral claim.
Claim: Iran to offer safe passage to countries expelling US and Israeli envoys
The claim has sparked speculations among netizens, with many questioning the authenticity of the claim (Minnesota Department of Propaganda/Facebook)
According to the claim, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (
IRGC
) has announced that any Arab or European country will be allowed safe pass…
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
By PA News Agency
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Tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea (AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Iran will immediately take steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a tentative deal with the US to end the war is signed and will be allowed to sell its oil without restrictions, according to leaked copies of an interim agreement that officials say broadly matches the document.
The accord, due to be formally signed in a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday, lays out that the US would secure at least 300 billion dollars (£223 billion) to rebuild Iran after the war.
And it would work to end all American and United Nations sanctions imposed on Tehran if a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear programme is reached.
The US agreement to allow Iran to sell its oil freely immediately and the offer to eventually lift all sanctions re…
Iran FM claims draft US deal includes ending naval blockade, Hormuz arrangements
Iran FM claims draft US deal includes ending naval blockade, Hormuz arrangements
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that a draft deal with the United States included ending a naval blockade of Iranian ports and arrangements on managing the strategic Strait of Hormuz.“The naval blockade must be completely lifted. That is the first point mentioned in the agreement,” Araghchi said in an interview with state television.For all the latest headlines, follow our Google News channel online or via the app.“Iran has made a firm decision that the administration of Strait of Hormuz will no longer be the same as before,” he noted, adding that discussions were ongoing with Oman on the matter.Read more: Iran’s Araghchi says Islamabad MoU with US has ‘never been closer’
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Not so fast: US disputes Hormuz shutdown
US Central Command has pushed back on Iranian claims that the Strait of Hormuz has been shut down, insisting commercial traffic is continuing to move through the strategically important waterway.
The denial came after Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reportedly warned that any vessel entering the Strait — including commercial ships and oil tankers — could be targeted.
In a statement posted to X, CENTCOM rejected suggestions the route had been closed, saying: “Commercial ships are continuing to transit in and out of the Strait of Hormuz tonight.”
The US military did not directly comment …
BREAKING: Hours after the signing of the Trump/Iran agreement, Iran is saying it will “not return to prewar conditions” and that Tehran will charge ships to transit the waterway after a 60-day toll-fr...
BREAKING: Hours after the signing of the Trump/Iran agreement, Iran is saying it will “not return to prewar conditions” and that Tehran will charge ships to transit the waterway after a 60-day toll-free period stipulated in the memorandum of understanding.
www.theguardian.com/world/live/2...
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
ADMINISTRATION yielded in White House, District of Columbia, United States
UK-France Strait of Hormuz mission fills US mine clearance gap, says Nato chief
By PA News Agency
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Vessels have started moving through the Strait of Hormuz following the signing of an initial deal (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
A UK and French-led mission to ensure the safety of shipping with the reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz waterway fills a gap in US capability, the head of Nato has said.
While very strong the US military lacked mine clearance assets, which could be provided by Britain and its European allies, according to the alliance’s secretary general Mark Rutte.
Ending Tehran’s stranglehold on the strategic waterway, which has disrupted global oil and gas supplies and driven up fuel and food prices, had been a key demand in peace negotiations.
US vice president JD Vance said millions of barrels of oil had been transported through the Gulf channel in the wake of Donald Trump signing an interim deal with Iran to end the nea…
Iran's chief negotiator says Hormuz will be administered by Tehran ...
Iran's chief negotiator says Hormuz will be administered by Tehran ...
TEHRAN: Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said that the Strait of Hormuz will be administered by Tehran, state media reported on Tuesday, following talks pushing to end the US-Israeli war on the Islamic republic.
Iran and the United States agreed on Monday to set up communication lines to keep the vital shipping route open and end fighting in Lebanon, mediators said, after their first round oftalks in Switzerlandtoward ending the conflict that has engulfed West Asia.
"The Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre-war conditions and will be administered by the Islamic Republic of Iran, in accordance with international law," Ghalibaf said on his return from the talks, according to IRNA.
In a video posted to Ghalibaf's Telegram account, he said the talks at the luxury Swiss resort of Burgenstock produced "good achievements".
"In my view, this trip had good achievements, especially regarding the discussion of the Strait, the Lebanon discussions, the question of oil waiver, and the matter of releasing the frozen funds," he said.
The United Statestemporarily suspended sanctions on Iranian oilo…
SWISS reduced relations LEBANON in Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
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Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
Facebook
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Hassan Ammar
/
AP
Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
WASHINGTON consulted SWITZERLAND in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran’s Strait of Hormuz warning casts doubt on UK-France defensive mission
Iran’s Strait of Hormuz warning casts doubt on UK-France defensive mission
By PA News Agency
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Tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz after the US and Iran traded fire (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
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and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz will only be carried out by Iran, the regime has said, casting doubt on a planned UK and French-led mission to make the vital oil supply route safe for shipping.
The country’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, said this was in line with the interim ceasefire deal signed with the US as Tehran moved to maintain its grip on the strategic waterway.
His remarks came in response to French President Emmanuel Macron, who said his country would work with Oman “in co-ordination with our partners” to demine the Gulf channel and ensure free passage for vessels.
Tehran accused Emmanuel Macron of ‘provocations’ (Thomas Padilla/AP)
Britain and France have been at the forefront of a proposed international mis…
Iran declares Strait of Hormuz 'completely open'; Trump says U.S. ...
Iran declares Strait of Hormuz 'completely open'; Trump says U.S. ...
EVENT ENDED
Last updated April 18, 2026, 3:16 AM EDT
Iran declares Strait of Hormuz 'completely open'; Trump says U.S. blockade 'will remain in full force' until peace deal
President Donald Trump hailed the news about the key waterway and said negotiations over a peace deal with Iran "should go very quickly."
Iran says it reopened Strait of Hormuz
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Updated
April 18, 2026, 3:16 AM EDT
By NBC News
What to know
IRAN DECLARES HORMUZ OPEN:
The crucial
Strait of Hormuz
trade route "is declared completely open" for commercial vessels for the remaining period of the ceasefire, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said. Ships will have to use a coordinated route, he said, adding that the move was made in line with the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire.
STOCKS SURGE, OIL DROPS:
Stocks surged higher and the price of oil dropped 12% on the news, though shipping companies say there are outstanding questions that need to be answered.
U.S. BLOCKADE REMAINS 'IN FULL FORCE':
President Donald Trump hailed the news and thanked Tehran, but said the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports "will remain in full …
Diplomacy, dark mode: How India-bound ships made safe passage via Strait of Hormuz | India News
Diplomacy, dark mode: How India-bound ships made safe passage via Strait of Hormuz | India News
As the war between Iran and US-Israel rages on even during its third week, with no clear signs of de-escalation, all eyes remain on the Strait of Hormuz that still lies choked because Tehran is controlling which ships pass through.
Amid this blockade, three Indian-flagged ships passed the Strait of Hormuz safely last week after several rounds of talks between leaders of India and Iran.
Around 20 per cent of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passes through Strait of Hormuz, and India is the world’s fourth largest buyer of the LNG and the second largest of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Track live updates of US-Iran war here
As Iran sought to block the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for oil, India sought to work up its diplomatic means to make sure that Indian-flagged ships pass through the strait safely.
Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to discuss the “serious situation” in West Asia. He expressed “deep concern” over the escalation of tensions in the area and the loss of civilian lives. The Prime Minister sai…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
UK-France Strait of Hormuz mission fills US mine clearance gap, says Nato chief
UK-France Strait of Hormuz mission fills US mine clearance gap, says Nato chief
By PA News Agency
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Vessels have started moving through the Strait of Hormuz following the signing of an initial deal (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
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and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
A UK and French-led mission to ensure the safety of shipping with the reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz waterway fills a gap in US capability, the head of Nato has said.
While very strong the US military lacked mine clearance assets, which could be provided by Britain and its European allies, according to the alliance’s secretary general Mark Rutte.
Ending Tehran’s stranglehold on the strategic waterway, which has disrupted global oil and gas supplies and driven up fuel and food prices, had been a key demand in peace negotiations.
US vice president JD Vance said millions of barrels of oil had been transported through the Gulf channel in the wake of Donald Trump signing an interim deal with Iran to end the nea…
Looks like those ships that were transiting the Strait were 3 Iranian oil tankers & other goods, so probably part of the negotiations. Details of #Trump's autopen signed #IranWar "deal" 60 day ceasefi...
Looks like those ships that were transiting the Strait were 3 Iranian oil tankers & other goods, so probably part of the negotiations. Details of #Trump's autopen signed #IranWar "deal" 60 day ceasefire extension are still opaque with both sides disagreeing publicly. #Israel still bombing […]
Hormuz Strait remains effectively closed, adding further pressure on ...
Hormuz Strait remains effectively closed, adding further pressure on ...
Market update
20 May, 2026
Despite no shortage of political statements and media reports that an imminent opening of the Strait of Hormuz is close, the reality is that the strait remains effectively closed. The US launched Operation Freedom on 4 May to evacuate stranded commercial vessels in the Gulf; however, the initiative was shelved the following day, with the US announcing it would pause the operation at the request of the Pakistani government, citing progress in peace talks.
A coalition of over 40 nations stated they are committed to the Multinational Military Mission (MMA), led by France and the UK, to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a ceasefire has been agreed.
Those involved in the international project have disclosed plans to deploy a wide variety of high-end aviation and naval equipment to safeguard the troubled waterway – an effort that could revive global trade, long strained by Iran’s blockade.
Peace talks in a continued deadlock
US President Trump announced on Monday, 18 May, that he was calling off what he said was a scheduled attack on Iran that was supposed to happen the following Tue…
2nd LD Writethru: Iran, U.S. agree on ceasefire on all fronts, lifting of naval blockade: Iranian deputy FM
2nd LD Writethru: Iran, U.S. agree on ceasefire on all fronts, lifting of naval blockade: Iranian deputy FM
TEHRAN, June 15 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. naval blockade against Iran will be lifted as of tonight and the immediate and permanent end of the war and military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, is announced, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs Kazem Gharibabadi said early Monday.
Gharibabadi said Iran and the United States will sign the finalized draft of a peace memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Switzerland on June 19, according to Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency.
Tasnim also cited a source as saying that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen following the signing ceremony in Switzerland.
Meanwhile, Iran's state-run IRIB TV, also citing Gharibabadi, said Iran's entry into a 60-day period of negotiations with the United States on its nuclear program and the removal of sanctions will hinge on the U.S. fulfillment of its preliminary commitments, which will be verified by Tehran from now until the signing ceremony.
Earlier in the day, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on social media platform X that the United States and…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
Iran Confirms It Will Charge Ships to Transit Strait of Hormuz After 60 ...
Iran Confirms It Will Charge Ships to Transit Strait of Hormuz After 60 ...
Politics
Iran Confirms It Will Charge Ships to Transit Strait of Hormuz After 60-Day Toll-Free Window
Tehran says the waterway "will not return to prewar conditions" as Trump defends the US-Iran memorandum despite previously rejecting tolls on the vital oil route
20 hours ago
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei (Photo: Tasnim)
Iran
Strait of Hormuz blockade
Strait of Hormuz
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) -
Iran has confirmed it will begin charging vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz once a 60-day toll-free period stipulated under the newly signed memorandum of understanding with the United States expires, with senior officials in Tehran making clear that the strategic waterway will not revert to its prewar status.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei reportedly said the matter of the strait would fall under the joint responsibility of Iran and Oman, the two countries bordering the narrow corridor through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally pass.
"It Will Not Return to Prewar Conditions"
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's chief negotiato…
'Total control…': Amid tit-for-tat strikes, Iran claims complete ...
'Total control…': Amid tit-for-tat strikes, Iran claims complete ...
Amid recent tit-for-tat strikes between the US and Iranian forces, Iran has asserted that the Strait of Hormuz will remain under its total control for the next 30 days, warning that any external intervention to challenge Iranian authority in the strategic waterway will lead to heightened tensions with Washington.
During a visit to neighbouring Iraq, Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, said his country is working to restore the Hormuz strait to full capacity within the timeframe agreed upon in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Tehran and Washington earlier this month.
"The Strait of Hormuz remains under the total oversight and management of Iran through the 30 coming days, and after all obstacles are removed, the total capacity of the waterway will be restored. This is what we are working on," Araghchi said.
"Any interference in this matter, any attempt to establish new or separate arrangements from those currently being carried out by the Islamic Republic of Iran, will only lead to further complications, delay the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and increase the level of tension, just…
US-Iran deal: Key questions remain over status of Strait of Hormuz
US-Iran deal: Key questions remain over status of Strait of Hormuz
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is at the heart of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the United States and Iran. Under the terms of the deal, the US will immediately lift its blockade of Iranian ports. The Islamic Republic, for its part, will reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and charge no toll for commercial vessels for a period of 60 days. However, the presence of sea mines in the vital waterway could be a cause for concern. Our correspondent Reza Sayah reports from the Strait of Hormuz.
SWITZERLAND appealed in White House, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Iran’s Strait of Hormuz warning casts doubt on UK-France defensive mission
Iran’s Strait of Hormuz warning casts doubt on UK-France defensive mission
By PA News Agency
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Tensions remain high in the Strait of Hormuz after the US and Iran traded fire (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Mine clearance in the Strait of Hormuz will only be carried out by Iran, the regime has said, casting doubt on a planned UK and French-led mission to make the vital oil supply route safe for shipping.
The country’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabadi, said this was in line with the interim ceasefire deal signed with the US as Tehran moved to maintain its grip on the strategic waterway.
His remarks came in response to French President Emmanuel Macron, who said his country would work with Oman “in co-ordination with our partners” to demine the Gulf channel and ensure free passage for vessels.
Tehran accused Emmanuel Macron of ‘provocations’ (Thomas Padilla/AP)
Britain and France have been at the forefront of a proposed international mis…
Tensions continue to escalate in the Strait of Hormuz as 3 commercial ...
Tensions continue to escalate in the Strait of Hormuz as 3 commercial ...
Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei purportedly said the attacks will continue.
Tensions continued to escalate in theStrait of HormuzThursday as the Iranian military claimed it struck an oil tanker in the Persian Gulf, one of three commercial ships attacked on Thursday morning near the Strait of Hormuz, the critical maritime passage for the oil and shipping trades.
The Safesea Vishnu, sailing under the Marshall Islands flag, was one of two oil tankers struck on Thursday. The Iranian navy claimed responsibility for the attack.
Another oil tanker, the Maltese-flagged Zefyros, was also attacked in the Persian Gulf, according to Iraq's state oil company, which said both tankers were within Iraq's territorial waters when they were hit. Iran did not immediately claim responsibility for the strike on the Zefyros.
The attacks near the Strait of Hormuz came after three other commercial vessels were hit in the strait on Wednesday, two of which Iran claimed it targeted.
The increased military activity in the Strait of Hormuz has come just days after President Donald Trump warned Iran in a post on his social media site that…
What to know about the US sea blockade on Iran | AP News
What to know about the US sea blockade on Iran | AP News
The standoff between the United States and Iran deepened Tuesday as the U.S. declared it had blockaded Iran’s ports. Tehran threatened to strike targets across the region, and Pakistan said it was racing to bring the sides together for more talks. (Produced by Elaine Carroll)
Oil tankers and cargo ships line up in the Strait of Hormuz as seen from Khor Fakkan, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, March 11, 2026. (AP Photo/Altaf Qadri,File)
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP) — The U.S. Navy’ssea blockadeagainst Iran appears to be working.
Iran-linked or sanctioned vessels that have left the Persian Gulf throughthe Strait of Hormuzhave stopped or turned around, shipping data firms say. They appear to havejammed or faked their locationsin some instances, complicating an uncertain and risky shipping situation.
The blockade that started Monday “has been fully implemented,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command. “U.S. forces have completely halted economic trade going in and out of Iran by sea.”
The action could put serious pressure on the Iranian economy, while Tehran’s earliercutoff of the waterwaycrucial to oil and gas supp…
Can Iran shut down the Strait of Hormuz again? What US intelligence ...
Can Iran shut down the Strait of Hormuz again? What US intelligence ...
Fresh US intelligence assessments have raised new concerns about Iran’s ability to disrupt global trade by shutting down the strategically criticalStrait of Hormuzagain following the recent conflict in the Middle East.
According to CNN, multiple US intelligence sources now believe Iran has demonstrated it can effectively close access to the waterway “at will,” giving Tehran powerful leverage over the global economy and energy markets going forward.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most important shipping chokepoints, with a significant portion ofglobal oiland gas exports passing through the narrow waterway betweenIranand Oman.
The strait connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea and is vital for global energy supplies. Any disruption to shipping traffic there can send oil prices soaring and affect economies worldwide.
CNN reported that Iran’s actions during the recent conflict convinced US intelligence officials that Tehran is now more willing, and more capable, of using the strait as a strategic weapon during future confrontations.
“We have now handed Iran de facto control over th…
‘Weapon more powerful than any nuke’: Iran can shut Strait of Hormuz again, US intel warns
‘Weapon more powerful than any nuke’: Iran can shut Strait of Hormuz again, US intel warns
Iran now possesses the capability to effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil and gas route, according to US intelligence. This development comes despite an upcoming peace agreement aimed at reopening the waterway. Concerns persist over Iran's military arsenal and its potential to use the strait as leverage in future disputes, even as diplomatic efforts continue.
Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone in Strait of Hormuz ahead of ...
Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone in Strait of Hormuz ahead of ...
TEHRAN:The first tankers carrying Iranian oil exited a US blockade in theStrait of Hormuz, a tracking website said on Wednesday, two days before Washington and Tehran launch talks onan agreed peace dealstill scant on details, including Iran's nuclear programme and the lifting of sanctions.
The talks on a final settlement are set to begin Friday at Switzerland's Burgenstock mountain resort, as news that theHormuz Strait will reopensent world oil prices tumbling.
Optimism that the war triggered by the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Tehran might be coming to an end was dented, however, by fresh Israeli strikes on south Lebanon.
The TankerTrackerswebsite, which monitors oil shipments and storage, marked Iran's "first crude oil exports in two months", citing digital tracking data corroborated by satellite imagery.
"At least two National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) VLCC supertankers named DIONA (9569695) and HERO2 (9362073) have exited the US Navy blockade perimeter carrying a combined total of 3.8 million barrels of Iranian crude oil between them," TankerTrackers said on X, later adding that a third tanker …
Unattributed party reduced relations OMAN in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Trump says 'let the oil flow', but Hormuz still largely shut - Gulf News
Trump says 'let the oil flow', but Hormuz still largely shut - Gulf News
Iran signals fees for Hormuz as shipping industry raises security concerns
Dubai: A fragile US-Iran framework agreement aimed at halting hostilities has been hailed by President Donald Trump as a diplomatic breakthrough — but key elements of the deal remain disputed, with uncertainty over the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief and enforcement mechanisms.
Trump said the agreement marked a historic step toward stabilising the Middle East and restoring global energy flows, claiming the US would lift its blockade of Iranian ports and reopen the Strait of Hormuz without tolls.
“Ships of the world, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” Trump said in a post on Truth Social, framing the deal as a major geopolitical and economic win.
He also toldThe New York Timesthat the agreement had “saved Israel from nuclear extinction” and made the region safer, adding that it represented a defining moment of his foreign policy approach.
But the framework — initialled after months of indirect negotiations mediated by regional actors — has not resolved several core disputes, according to officials and analys…
Iran Claims Total Control Over Strait of Hormuz for Next 30 Days, Warns ...
Iran Claims Total Control Over Strait of Hormuz for Next 30 Days, Warns ...
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, during a visit to Iraq, said that the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains under total Iranian control for the next 30 days. He warned that any challenge to the Strait of Hormuz will 'increase tensions'.
"The Strait of Hormuz remains under the total oversight and management of Iran through the 30 coming days, and after all obstacles are removed, the total capacity of the waterway will be restored. This is what we are working on," said Abbas Araghchi.
Breaking It Down
What recent military actions have occurred in the Strait of Hormuz?
How has Iran increased vessel traffic through the Strait recently?
What is Iran's new approach to managing the Strait of Hormuz?
Created with AI. Errors are possible
"This responsibility rests on the Islamic Republic of Iran. There is no other party or state in this respect," he added.
"Any interference in this matter, any attempt to establish new or separate arrangements from those currently being carried out by the Islamic Republic of Iran, will only lead to further complications, delay the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and increase…
Iranian Oil Tankers And Cargo Ships Pass After Trump Lifts US Blockade ...
Iranian Oil Tankers And Cargo Ships Pass After Trump Lifts US Blockade ...
The United Statesand Iran digitally signed a memo of understanding aimed at ending the war and allowing details to be negotiated, withPresident Donald Trumpsaying Iran will reopen the Strait of Hormuz andVice PresidentJD Vance saying the strait will be toll free.
Trump declared the deal “all signed” and said the strait is “already partially opened,” while the memorandum of understanding is set to be formally signed at a ceremony in Geneva on Friday attended by JD Vance and Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf.
The BBC said the Strait of Hormuz will be opened “immediately” once the MOU is signed in person, while the Hill reported the issue that triggered the conflict—Iran’s nuclear program—would be pushed to further negotiations over the next 60 days.
Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian praised the deal as “an important step” toward ending the war and beginning negotiations, but also said a “final agreement has yet to take shape.”
As the agreement faced immediate scrutiny, MS NOW reported a senior U.S. official disputed claims by Iran that roughly $25 billionin frozen assets had already been released to Tehran, while Pezeshkia…
donald Trump Ends US Naval Blockade of iran - Times Now
donald Trump Ends US Naval Blockade of iran - Times Now
As the world watches for a possible breakthrough in
US-Iran peace talks
, President Donald Trump has announced the lifting of the US naval blockade on Iran in the
Strait of Hormuz
. The US had imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports last month with an aim to ramp up economic pressure on Tehran by restricting its ability to export oil and import critical supplies. It also came in response to Iran’s chokehold over the vital shipping lane, the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy trade.
What is the Strait of
Hormuz
?
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical international shipping route that supports global trade and energy markets. The critical waterway connects the Gulf of Oman to the Persian Gulf, and a fifth of the world’s oil passed through before the US-Israel-Iran war began on February 28.
Breaking It Down
What impact did the blockade have on Iran's economy?
How did the US military enforce the blockade?
What were the conditions set by Iran for passage through Hormuz?
Created with AI. Errors are possible
Strait of Hormuz
US Naval Blockade Ends
Trump announced the end of the US naval blockade of Iran, signalling a po…
US lifts Iran ports blockade as uncertainty clouds Swiss Iran talks
US lifts Iran ports blockade as uncertainty clouds Swiss Iran talks
American forces on Thursday lifted their parallel naval blockade of Iranian ports
Washington, United States: The US on Thursday lifted a blockade of Iranian ports imposed during the Middle East war after President Donald Trump signed a deal to end the conflict, as uncertainty surrounded planned talks in Switzerland aiming to take the accord further.
The signing of the deal by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian set in motion a 60-day period for talks on wider issues between the two foes, including the Iranian nuclear programme.
But there was uncertainty over the next steps, and it remained unclear if the two sides, who have had no diplomatic relations following the 1979 Islamic revolution, would hold a signing ceremony and talks in Switzerland on Friday as previously announced.
Oil prices tumbled after the agreement was inked, though activity was still muted in the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic bottleneck for energy shipments that Iran blockaded during the conflict and which should reopen immediately under the deal.
American forces on Thursday lifted their parallel naval blockade of Iranian ports …
Trump says US is extending ceasefire while awaiting proposal from Iran
Trump says US is extending ceasefire while awaiting proposal from Iran
2 ships attacked in Strait of Hormuz, complicating diplomatic efforts to resume talks
Today’s live updates have ended. Followmore live coverageon the Iran war.
Major developments we’re following:
In a post on X Tuesday evening, Scott Bessent said the blockade of Iranian ports “directly targets the regime’s primary revenue lifelines” by constraining maritime trade.
“Kharg Island storage will be full and the fragile Iranian oil wells will be shut in,” Bessent said.
Kharg Island is considered the beating heart of Iran’s oil industry, through which 90% of its exports pass.
In line with previous statements abouteconomic pressure efforts, Bessent also said Iranian funds would remain frozen and any person or vessel facilitating the flow of funds to Iran would risk U.S. sanctions.
Iranian hard-liners rallied late Tuesday night as possible talks in Islamabad with the United States broke down, with members of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard apparently bringing a ballistic missile on a mobile launcher to one event.
Footage aired by Iranian state TV showed men carrying Kalashnikov-style assault rifles ridin…
Iran says it's mulling latest U.S. peace proposal and Trump says he'll wait ...
Iran says it's mulling latest U.S. peace proposal and Trump says he'll wait ...
Follow
updates on the war in the Middle East for Friday, May 22
, here. See earlier developments below.
What to know about the Iran war:
Iran's government is reviewing the latest proposal from the U.S. for a potential deal to end the
nearly three-month war
that has sent global
fuel prices soaring
, according to state media in Tehran.
House Republicans scrapped a vote Thursday evening to limit President Trump's war powers in Iran after determining that they couldn't block the resolution.
President Trump says he's
willing to wait "a couple of days"
for an Iranian response to the latest American offer, adding that his team is "pretty impressed" by Iran's negotiators, but that "we have to get the right answers" to avoid a return to war.
New Updates
3:21 AM / May 22, 2026
Iran condemns U.S. sanctions on its Lebanon ambassador-designate
Iran's foreign ministry on Friday condemned what it called "illegal" U.S. sanctions on Tehran's ambassador-designate to Lebanon, according to a ministry statement.
The ministry "strongly condemned the illegal and unjustified action by the U.S. Treasury Department in sanctioni…
Iran Reasserts Control of Strait of Hormuz Hours After Trump Claims ...
Iran Reasserts Control of Strait of Hormuz Hours After Trump Claims ...
Donald Trump and Iranian officials issued sharply conflicting statements over the status of the Strait of Hormuz on April 18, exposing a widening gap between Washington's claims of a breakthrough and Tehran's insistence that it retains tight control over one of the world's most critical energy corridors.
The dispute unfolded within hours. Trump declared on his Truth Social platform that "Iran has agreed to never close the Strait of Hormuz again. It will no longer be used as a weapon against the world." Shortly afterward, Iran's joint military command countered that "control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state ... under strict management and control of the armed forces."
The rapid reversal underscored the absence of any verifiable agreement between the two sides. No joint communiqué, treaty text, or independent confirmation has emerged to support Trump's assertion, while Iranian officials have publicly articulated a position that directly contradicts it.
Tehran's stance appears closely tied to ongoing U.S. pressure. The White House has maintained a blockade on Iranian ports, which Trum…
Iran begins laying mines in Strait of Hormuz, sources say | CNN Politics
Iran begins laying mines in Strait of Hormuz, sources say | CNN Politics
Luojiashan tanker sits anchored in Muscat, as Iran vows to close the Strait of Hormuz, amid the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Muscat, Oman, on March 7.
Benoit Tessier/Reuters
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Iran has begun laying mines in the
Strait of Hormuz
, the world’s most important energy chokepoint that carries about one-fifth of all crude oil, according to two people familiar with US intelligence reporting on the issue.
The mining is not extensive yet, with a few dozen having been laid in recent days, the sources said. But Iran still retains upward of 80% to 90% of its small boats and mine layers, one of the sources said, so its forces could feasibly lay hundreds of mines in the waterway.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which now effectively controls the strait along with Iran’s traditional navy, has the capability to deploy a “gauntlet” of dispersed mine-laying craft, explosive-laden boats and shore-based missile batteries, CNN has reported.
President Donald Trump said in a post on Truth Social on Tue…
Trump's War Now Means Iran Can Shut Strait Of Hormuz Anytime, U.S ...
Trump's War Now Means Iran Can Shut Strait Of Hormuz Anytime, U.S ...
Breaking
Business
Trump’s War Now Means Iran Can Shut Strait Of Hormuz Anytime, U.S. Intel Reportedly Finds
By
Sara Dorn
,
Forbes Staff.
Sara Dorn is a Forbes news reporter who covers politics.
Follow Author
Jun 16, 2026, 12:19pm EDT
Jun 16, 2026, 01:37pm EDT
Topline
The U.S. war with Iran showed the regime it can successfully shut down the Strait of Hormuz—giving it a new tool that it didn’t have before the conflict, with nothing barring it from using it again, U.S. intelligence assessments
reportedly found
.
The Ateela 2 Oil Tanker boat navigates the Strait of Hormuz on April 28, 2026. (Photo by Asghar Besharati/Getty Images)
Getty Images
Key Facts
Iran has already been planning to expand its strategy of choking global shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz if talks with the U.S. fall through to the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, with the help of the Houthi rebel group in Yemen, CNN
reported
, citing three unnamed sources familiar with the intel.
Despite Trump’s claims the U.S. has decimated Iran’s military, Iran still has a significant stockpile of weaponry, including …
US and Iran announce Strait of Hormuz open, Trump ... - Euronews
US and Iran announce Strait of Hormuz open, Trump ... - Euronews
By
Peter Barabas
&
Gavin Blackburn
Published on
17/04/2026 - 15:36 GMT+2
•
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Iran and US declare Strait of Hormuz "completely open," but Iran adds that passage is on a "coordinated route" set by Tehran.
Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz was "declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire," Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced in a post on X on Friday.
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Moments later, US President Donald Trump announced in a social media post that "Iran has just announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for full passage."
"Thank you!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.
However, the Iranian FM’s post said that passage is “on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
Araghchi's cryptic message about the “coordinated route as already announced” by Iran signalled that Tehran still wants to retain leverage or the upper hand by cont…
How long can Iran withstand a US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz ...
How long can Iran withstand a US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz ...
Analysts say Iran’s survival timeline depends on a mix of stored oil, alternative revenues, and political resilience
TBS Report
25 April, 2026, 12:15 pm
Last modified: 25 April, 2026, 12:15 pm
Luojiashan tanker sits anchored in Muscat, amid the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, in Muscat, Oman, March 7, 2026. REUTERS/Benoit Tessier/File Photo
The US naval blockade of Iranian ports and Iran's subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz has escalated pressure on global energy flows, raising questions about how long Tehran can sustain itself under restricted export conditions.
Analysts say Iran's survival timeline depends on a mix of stored oil, alternative revenues, and political resilience, with some estimates suggesting it could last until at least August 2026, says Al Jazeera.
What triggered the current situation?
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
The United States began a naval blockade of Iranian ports on 13 April 2026, amid wider hostilities involving Israel. Iran responded by closing the Strait of Hormuz to foreign shipping and detaining several foreign-flagged vessels.
Iranian of…
Explained: If there's a peace deal, why aren't ships crossing Hormuz ...
Explained: If there's a peace deal, why aren't ships crossing Hormuz ...
US President Donald Trump, on Sunday (Jun 14), announced the completion of adeal with Iran, ordering the immediate lifting of the US naval blockade.
He officially opened theStrait of Hormuzto toll-free maritime traffic, declaring that global shipping can resume and oil can flow freely once again.
“The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all! I hereby fully authorise the toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorise the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow,” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social handle.
Despite his announcement, only seven vessels have crossed the critical waterway, while 580 ships remain stranded or are waiting in the Gulf, according to the BBC.
More than 250 tankers and over 330 cargo ships are currently stuck inside the Gulf, with roughly 75 per cent of these tankers stationary and clustered around major oil export terminals in Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the UAE.
Experts say that the ships are experiencing several crucial hurdles prevent…
The U.S.-Iran Conflict and the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
The U.S.-Iran Conflict and the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
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The U.S.-Iran Conflict and the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
In February 2026, U.S. and Israeli operations against Ir…
Iran reimposes 'strict control' over Strait of Hormuz, citing ... - NBC News
Iran reimposes 'strict control' over Strait of Hormuz, citing ... - NBC News
Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, speaks as a map of the Strait of Hormuz is displayed during a press briefing at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., on April 16.
Saul Loeb / AFP - Getty Images
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April 18, 2026, 5:07 AM EDT
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Updated
April 18, 2026, 5:15 AM EDT
By
Freddie Clayton
Iranian military officials said Saturday that conditions in the Strait of Hormuz have reverted to “strict control,” citing the continued U.S. blockade of its ports, just one day after
declaring the waterway “completely open.”
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“Control over the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state, and this strategic waterway is now under strict management and control of the armed forces,” a spokesperson for Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya military command headquarters said.
“Until America allows full freedom of navigation for vessels traveling from Iran to destinations and vice versa, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain under strict control and in its previous condition,” the state…
Tracking the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, in live maps and …
Tracking the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, in live maps and …
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The US-Iran agreement
signed on June 17 promises
that commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz “will immediately start.”
A total of 25 commercial ships
crossed through the strait on Thursday - the most since April, according to marine intelligence firm AXSMarine.
CNN is tracking the strait’s reopening and its traffic volumes in live maps and charts.
Reopening the Strait of Hormuz — which Tehran effectively closed during the conflict — is a key part of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the United States and Iran. Before the war, around 20% of global oil production flowed through the waterway.
Under the MOU, the United States has until July 19 to fully lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports. Iran is expected to make its “best efforts” to restore traffic to pre-war levels over that same period.
Left unaddressed
in the agreement is whether Iran will ultimately retain control over the strait. Ships will be able to travel toll-free for “60 days only” while Iran and its Gulf neighbors work out a new arrangement for the str…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Trump lashes out at critics who say he was not 'tough enough on Iran'
Trump lashes out at critics who say he was not 'tough enough on Iran'
Iranian state TV said on Thursday that vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz still needed to coordinate with the IRGC Navy.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Thursday that he spoke with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah about Tehran’s memorandum of understanding with the US.
He said Iran remained committed to a policy of good-neighborly relations and hoped the agreement would help restore peace and stability in the region.
Araghchi also stressed the need for dialogue with Persian Gulf countries to improve engagement and clear up existing ambiguities, the ministry said.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the US-Iran Memorandum of Understanding as mediator on Thursday, a video released by the Prime Minister's Office showed.
The commander of the IRGC in Tehran said neighborhood patrols and checkpoints would continue across the Iranian capital.
Hassan Hassanzadeh said continuous patrols in Tehran’s highlands and across the city were continuing to search for espionage equipment.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Thursday that the memorandum of …
Ship runs aground in Strait of Hormuz, Iran says | AP News
Ship runs aground in Strait of Hormuz, Iran says | AP News
A group of people stands in shallow water as a cargo ship appears anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Tuesday, June 30, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
An Israeli soldier work on a tank near the border with Lebanon in northern Israel, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
An Ultra-Orthodox Jewish man poses for a photo beside Israeli and Lebanese flags at a memorial site on the border with Lebanon in northern Israel, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
An Israeli flag hangs on a damaged building in southern Lebanon as seen from northern Israel, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
An Israeli soldier directs an APC near the border with Lebanon in northern Israel, Wednesday, July 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A ship ran aground inthe Strait of Hormuzwhile using a route not approved by Iran, state television in Tehran reported Wednesday. The vessel was identified as a foreign container ship, with no other details.
The report appeared aimed at underlining Tehran’s claims to control the strait, which the world has lon…
Iran's New Supreme Leader Vows Revenge, Will Keep Blocking ... - TIME
Iran's New Supreme Leader Vows Revenge, Will Keep Blocking ... - TIME
Iran’s new Supreme Leader
Mojtaba Khamenei
defied U.S. President Donald Trump’s warnings and vowed to keep the Strait of Hormuz closed amid global trade disruption and surging oil prices.
“The leverage of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must continue to be used,” said Khamenei Thursday, in his first public statement since succeeding his father.
His remarks were broadcast via state media, but Khamenei did not appear on camera.
As well as encouraging the disruption of the Strait, a narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman through which around a fifth of global oil production flows, Khamenei called on Gulf states to “shut down” U.S. bases.
“I recommend that they shut down those bases as soon as possible, because by now they must have realized that the United States’ claims of providing security and peace have been nothing more than a lie,” he claimed.
Khamenei also vowed to avenge the deaths of those killed in the Iran war.
“I assure everyone that we will not refrain from avenging the blood of your martyrs,” he said. “A limited portion of this retaliation has already taken tangible form, but until…
Unattributed party consulted UNITED ARAB EMIRATES in Dubai, Dubayy, United Arab Emirates
NPR News
Iran's control of the Strait of Hormuz remains a powerful bargaining chip
NPR |
By
Aya Batrawy
,
Tom Bowman
Published July 3, 2026 at 3:51 PM CDT
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JUANA SUMMERS, HOST:
A fifth of the world's oil used to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Today, it's a fraction of that. Iran's control of the waterway remains a potent weapon in this conflict. For more on what lies ahead, we're joined by NPR's Tom Bowman and Aya Batrawy, who is in Dubai. Hi there.
TOM BOWMAN, BYLINE: Hello.
AYA BATRAWY, BYLINE: Hey.
SUMMERS: Tom, I want to start with you. Just help us understand what the memorandum of understanding that was signed between the U.S. and Iran last month says about how the Strait of Hormuz should be managed.
BOWMAN: Well, this temporary agreement signed three weeks ago says Iran will ensure safe passage of commercial vessels with no charge for 60 days. So I'm guessing anyone who's reading this, especially the Iranians, are thinking, well, after 60 days, I can start charging. That seems to be a big loophole here, Juana. Also, the memorandum says that Oman and Iran will work to define the, quote, "future administration in mar…
UNITED STATES consulted SWITZERLAND in Geneva, Genè, Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Hassan Ammar
/
AP
Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:37 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV reported the IRGC Nav…
PARLIAMENT consulted IRAN in Minab, Sistan va Baluchestan, Iran
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
[Live Updates] US-Israel-Iran War News Today: Second round of peace ...
[Live Updates] US-Israel-Iran War News Today: Second round of peace ...
US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates:A major escalation is unfolding in West Asia after the Donald Trump administration ordered a military blockade of Iranian ports, raising fears of a wider regional conflict and global economic impact.
The United States has begun enforcing a blockade on all Iranian ports and coastal areas, according to military officials. The move marks a serious step-up in pressure on Tehran following the collapse of recent ceasefire talks.
Reacting to the blockade, Iran issued strong warnings. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said any foreign military vessel approaching the Strait of Hormuz would be seen as violating the ceasefire and would be “dealt with severely.”
President Trump claimed that Iran is now eager to negotiate. He said he received calls from “appropriate people” in Tehran seeking a deal. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance accused Iran of committing “economic terrorism” by threatening key oil routes, adding that the responsibility to de-escalate lies with Tehran.
ALSO READ: China gives stern warning to US over Hormuz blockade, says, ‘Don’t interfere in our…’
The b…
Iran closes Strait of Hormuz after accusing US and Israel of breaching ...
Iran closes Strait of Hormuz after accusing US and Israel of breaching ...
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the Strait of Hormuz closed again on Saturday after accusing the US and Israel of violating the newly-signed peace deal.
The top joint military command, Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, said that the closure was the "first step" in response to what it described as
breaches of commitments
to the Memorandum of Understanding signed by Donald Trump on Wednesday.
It came as state media in Lebanon reported 16 people had been killed in Israeli attacks. An Israeli military official said Hezbollah fired more than 50 projectiles at Israeli forces in southern Lebanon overnight, and that Israel had attacked what it described as Hezbollah targets in response.
A ceasefire in Lebanon was one of the primary stipluations of the interim deal.
On Saturday, Tehran warned ships not to approach the waterway, a vital conduit for global oil and gas supplies.
But despite the Iran’s announcement, the US responded by denying the waterway had been closed.
US Central Command spokesperson Navy Captain Tim Hawkins said: "Traffic continues to flow, and US forces are monitoring …
Iran says Strait of Hormuz restrictions remain despite Trump claim of lifted blockade yespunjab.com?p=259240
#Iran #StraitOfHormuz #DonaldTrump #USIran #IRGC #ShippingNews #MaritimeSecurity #CENTCOM...
Iran says Strait of Hormuz restrictions remain despite Trump claim of lifted blockade yespunjab.com?p=259240
#Iran #StraitOfHormuz #DonaldTrump #USIran #IRGC #ShippingNews #MaritimeSecurity #CENTCOM #MiddleEast #Geopolitics #OilTrade #WorldNews #Hormuz #IranNews #BreakingNews
IRGC says 2 ships struck in Strait of Hormuz, US military denies claim ...
IRGC says 2 ships struck in Strait of Hormuz, US military denies claim ...
Explosions reported in Strait of Hormuz as Iran claims vessels hit in key oil route
Iranian news agencies has reported early on Thursday that two vessels attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz were struck, a fact denied by the US military.
The report further heightens tensions in one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.
It did not immediately clarify who carried out the alleged strikes or whether the ships were commercial or military.
There was also no independent confirmation of the incidents at the time of reporting.
The Central Command, a branch of the US military responsible for the Middle East, denied Iran's claim that the Strait of Hormuz had been closed to all ships and oil tankers, adding that "zero" US warships were struck, in a counterpoint to IRGC claims.
"Commercial ships are continuing to transit in and out of the Strait of Hormuz tonight," as per CentCom.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, carries roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies, making it one of the most strategically sensitive maritime routes in the world.
Any disruption there has …
BREAKING: Iran says it is closing the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels, including oil tankers, after a new round of U.S. airstrikes.
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran shuts the doors to Strait of Hormuz; alleges US, Israeli ...
Iran shuts the doors to Strait of Hormuz; alleges US, Israeli ...
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Reuters
A vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, Iran, May 22, 2026.
Iran
on Saturday announced the closure of the
Strait of Hormuz
to vessel traffic, accusing the United States of a "clear breach of trust" and Israel of violating the ceasefire in southern Lebanon, a move that threatens to undermine a fragile US-Iran agreement and reignite concerns over global energy supplies.
According to Iran's semi-official
Mehr news agency
, the country's top joint military command said the strategic waterway was being shut in response to Washington's "clear breach of its commitments" under the first clause of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) that ended the
Middle East war
, as well as Israel's continuing military operations in southern Lebanon.
You may follow our live coverage of the West Asia war here
Iran's Islamic R…
Iran chief negotiator says Hormuz strait to open only under 'Iranian ...
Iran chief negotiator says Hormuz strait to open only under 'Iranian ...
Reuters
Iran's chief negotiator declared the Strait of Hormuz will open under Iranian arrangements.
Tehran: Iran's chief negotiator said Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz would be opened only under "Iranian arrangements", after Tehran and Washington traded strikes in the Middle East.
"The United States still has not learned that bullying and breaking its promises no longer come without consequences," Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said on X. "Let me be clear: If you strike, you will be struck."
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US weighs shifting Gulf bases as Iran tensions rise; ship hit in Strait ...
US weighs shifting Gulf bases as Iran tensions rise; ship hit in Strait ...
Washington and Tehran are trading warnings again as the United States reviews its military footprint in West Asia, a commercial vessel is struck in the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran accuses NATO members of backing US and Israeli action during the war.
A Wall Street Journal report says the US is considering relocating some military assets farther from Iran’s missile and drone range after reviewing damage to a key naval base in Bahrain. The report, citing US officials and satellite imagery, says the Bahrain base suffered more damage than Washington has publicly acknowledged.
According to the report, the Pentagon is also weighing refurbishment of the Bahrain facility while reducing its presence in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Some operations could be shifted westward, with Israel emerging as one possible location for relocated US bases.
The review comes as the Trump administration has asked Congress for an additional $87.6 billion for military operations, force readiness and replenishing weapons stockpiles. Trump has also said Iran has agreed not to acquire a nuclear weapon, though regional tensions remain high a…
Iran war live: Trump says MoU with Tehran signed electronically
Iran war live: Trump says MoU with Tehran signed electronically
Backlash to US-Iran deal grows in Israel as Iranian vessels pass through Strait of Hormuz after US lifts naval blockade.
SWITZERLAND appealed in White House, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Hassan Ammar
/
AP
Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:37 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV reported the IRGC Nav…
Two Indian ships come under fire in Strait of Hormuz after Iran reasserts ...
Two Indian ships come under fire in Strait of Hormuz after Iran reasserts ...
EVENT ENDED
Last updated April 18, 2026, 10:09 PM EDT
Two Indian ships come under fire in Strait of Hormuz after Iran reasserts control
Closing the Strait of Hormuz was a response to "America's untrustworthiness," the head of Iran's National Security Commission said.
Iran declares Strait of Hormuz closed in response to U.S. Navy blockade
02:14
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Updated
April 18, 2026, 10:09 PM EDT
By NBC News
What to know
HORMUZ RESTRICTED:
Iran says it has reimposed “strict control” over the Strait of Hormuz, reversing its declaration a day earlier that the vital shipping lane was fully open, citing the ongoing U.S. naval blockade.
U.S. BLOCKADE CONTINUES:
The Trump administration says its blockade of Iranian ports remains in force, with more than 20 ships turned back since Monday as pressure mounts for a broader deal.
SHIPPING RISKS:
Maritime authorities report gunfire and a projectile strike involving Indian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
NEW TALKS BUT NO TIMELINE:
Iranian officials say new U.S. proposals are under review, but there is still no date set for the next round of negotiations …
ISRAELI reduced relations in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Trump and Iran claim the Strait of Hormuz is 'completely open.' Here's ...
Trump and Iran claim the Strait of Hormuz is 'completely open.' Here's ...
A U.S. blockade of Iran's ports is still in place, and Iran has its own caveats.
Both the United States and Iranhave claimedthecritical Straitof Hormuzis now"completely open," but serious questions remain about if and when commercial shipping traffic will be restored to pre-war levels.
The Persian Gulf waterway typically transits roughly one-fifth of the world's oil and gas supplies. But hardly any ships have traversed the strait since the war began in late February.
On Friday morning, both President Donald Trump and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced a deal wasreached to allow for the free flow of traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.
The strait was supposed to open at the start of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire10 daysago, but the Iranians backed off the agreement, demanding that Israel halt its military operations in Lebanon first.
After anagreementbetween Israel and Lebanonfell into placeovernight,Iran'sforeign minister was first to announce a new deal regarding the strait.
"In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared complet…
Analysis: Is The US Naval Blockade On Iran Working?
Analysis: Is The US Naval Blockade On Iran Working?
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To pressure Iran into a peace deal, the United States has imposed a naval blockade on the Middle Eastern country’s ports and vessels since April 13.While it has intensified pressure on Iran’s already battered economy, the US blockade has yet to force Tehran into making concessions to end the nearly two-month-long war, experts say.Iran has refused to come to the negotiating table unless the United States lifts the barricade, which targets Tehran’s lucrative oil revenue. Washington has insisted that the blockade will only end when a peace deal is signed.The US embargo came in response to Iran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global energy supplies, to international shipping since the war began on February 28. The move has rattled international markets, upended the global economy, and handed Tehran new leverage in the war.“If the primary goal of the blockade is to stop vessel traffic to and from Iran, and most importantly the flow of Iranian crude exports, then the blockade has been a success,” said Nader Itayim, a Middle East energy expert.“But if Washington expects the blockade to swiftly…
US-Iran Tensions Escalate: Khamenei Funeral Crowds, Hormuz Tanker ...
US-Iran Tensions Escalate: Khamenei Funeral Crowds, Hormuz Tanker ...
Macron, Zelensky join Ankara talks as Trump pressed on Iran, Ukraine and NATO
Highlights
Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, citing unnamed sources, reported that the oil tanker was attacked after attempting to pass through the Omani route in the Strait of Hormuz with support from the US Navy.
The broadcaster said the vessel was targeted after allegedly ignoring repeated warnings, while noting that no Iranian official has confirmed or denied the report.
Iran has previously warned ships against using the southern route through Omani waters in the Strait of Hormuz, saying all maritime movements through the strategic waterway must be coordinated with its military.
US officials have blamed Iran for an attack on a tanker off the coast of Oman that caused a fire after the vessel was struck by an “unknown projectile”.
Speaking to Axios, two US officials said Iran’s military fired at least two missiles at commercial ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz.
One official said a second vessel was also hit, with both ships suffering significant damage but no casualties reported.
The body of Iran’s late Supreme Lea…
Ship Runs Aground in Strait of Hormuz, Iranian State TV Reports
Ship Runs Aground in Strait of Hormuz, Iranian State TV Reports
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A group of people stands in shallow water as a cargo ship appears anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Tuesday, June 30, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
Originally published by
Associated Press
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A ship ran aground in
the Strait of Hormuz
while using a route not approved by Iran, state television in Tehran reported Wednesday. The vessel was identified as a foreign container ship, with no other details.
The report appeared aimed at underlining Tehran’s claims to control the strait, which the world has long considered an international waterway. It saw a fifth of all oil and natural gas pass through it in peacetime.
Iran has used its ability to choke off the waterway as a key source of leverage since the war began, disrupting global markets for energy and other critical goods.
The report came as
U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner
, U.S. President Donald Trump's son-in-law, were in Doha, Qatar, for talks over reaching a permanent en…
May 24, 2026 Middle East news — US, Iran still negotiating peace deal terms | CNN
May 24, 2026 Middle East news — US, Iran still negotiating peace deal terms | CNN
• Get the latest updates on the
war with Iran here.
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Where talks stand:
The US and Iran are
signaling progress
in efforts to resolve the war, but crucial details of a framework agreement are
still under negotiation
, and a US official tells CNN it could
take a few more days to finalize
. President Donald Trump has said a deal is close but that a US naval blockade on Iranian ports
will remain in place
during the ongoing talks.
•
How the deal would work:
The framework would
give negotiators 60 days
to iron out a longer-term agreement, according to a senior Trump administration official. The specific terms surrounding
the Strait of Hormuz
and
Iran’s nuclear program
will be critical.
Here’s what we know so far.
•
Long road ahead:
If a deal is reached to end the war and reopen the strait, it will be a
lengthy and complex process
to alleviate the world’s energy crisis and start lowering prices for consumers.
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U.S. sinks 7 small Iranian boats as Iran launches attacks on UAE and ...
U.S. sinks 7 small Iranian boats as Iran launches attacks on UAE and ...
Follow
updates on the war in the Middle East for Tuesday, May 5
, here. See earlier developments below.
What to know about the Iran war:
Iran launched its first missile and drone attack on the United Arab Emirates since a ceasefire with the U.S. took effect on April 8, and it fired two drones at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, UAE authorities said Monday.
The U.S. military said two commercial vessels safely transited the key waterway Monday under the
Project Freedom initiative announced by President Trump
. Iran fired missiles at ships being protected during the operation, and Mr. Trump said U.S. forces destroyed seven Iranian small boats for trying to interfere.
The Iranian regime says it received a U.S. response to its latest 14-point peace proposal, which it says is aimed at ending the war, not extending the current ceasefire. Mr. Trump said over the weekend that he'd likely reject the Iranian proposal, as "they have not paid a big enough price."
New Updates
3:04 AM / May 5, 2026
Iran's top negotiator talks tough about Strait of Hormuz
Iran's chief negotiator in talks with the United States warned Tuesday …
US-Iran peace deal news LIVE: JD Vance arrives in Switzerland ... - Mint
US-Iran peace deal news LIVE: JD Vance arrives in Switzerland ... - Mint
Representatives from the United States and Iran were scheduled to begin peace negotiations in Switzerland on Sunday, despite disagreements between Washington and Tehran over Iranian claims that the strategically important Strait of Hormuz had been closed.
According to Iranian state media, a senior Iranian delegation arrived inSwitzerlandfor the talks, while US Vice President JD Vance left Washington for meetings that Pakistan said would start on Sunday.
The two countries had previously agreed to a 60-day ceasefire during the negotiation period. However, on Saturday, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that the Strait of Hormuz was closed. US military officials challenged that claim, stating that commercial shipping traffic continued to move through the waterway.
These developments may complicate the negotiations, as both sides aim to make progress on an interim agreement mediated by Pakistan and signed on Wednesday by US PresidentDonald Trumpand Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, with the goal of ending the nearly four-month conflict between the two nations.
Citing what it described as Is…
Analysis: Iran's stranglehold on Strait of Hormuz loosens | AP News
Analysis: Iran's stranglehold on Strait of Hormuz loosens | AP News
A small motorboat passes anchored vessels in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Thursday, June 11, 2026.(Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
A person stands in shallow water as cargo and commercial vessels are anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Monday, June 8, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) —Iran‘s stranglehold onthe Strait of Hormuzmay be easing — and its own oil problems now seem to be mounting.
The crucial strait at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, through which a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas supplies once passed, has been effectively shut by Iran’s attacks on shipping since the start of the war in February. Even with much of its navy sunk, just Iran’s threat to attack madeshippers and insurers hesitant to send vesselsthrough the strait. The resulting energy crunch has fueled global inflation,including in the U.S.
The situation, however, appears to be shifting. Analysts say more oil from Gulf Arab states appears to be getting out to market, with the help of the U.S. military. U.S.President Donald Trumpsays a “secret mission” to…
'Start your engines'? Shipping groups wary on Hormuz reopening
'Start your engines'? Shipping groups wary on Hormuz reopening
<p>Shipping groups warned Monday that it was too soon to start sailing through the Strait of Hormuz following US and Iranian promises that the trade route would reopen under their agreement to end the war.</p><p>US President Donald Trump on Sunday declared: "Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!", as he announced the agreement to halt the conflict.</p><p>A "memorandum of understanding" between the two nations stipulated the "reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days", as quoted by Iran's Mehr news agency.</p>
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Donald Trump has issued fresh threats against Iran, warning Tehran will pay the price if negotiations take too long, raising fears of renewed conflict that could worsen cost of living pressures.
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News and politics live updates: Trump orders new US strikes on Iran as CENTCOM announces military response
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Madeline Cove
Not so fast: US disputes Hormuz shutdown
US Central Command has pushed back on Iranian claims that the Strait of Hormuz has been shut down, insisting commercial traffic is continuing to move through the strategically important waterway.
The denial came after Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reportedly warned that any vessel entering the Strait — including commercial ships and oil tankers — could be targeted.
In a statement posted to X, CENTCOM rejected suggestions the route had been closed, saying: “Commercial ships are continuing to transit in and out of the Strait of Hormuz tonight.”
The US military did not directly comment …
NATO Backs US in Hormuz Strait, Cautions on Iran's Capabilities
NATO Backs US in Hormuz Strait, Cautions on Iran's Capabilities
Military alliance, partners agree to ensure safe Hormuz passage amid Iran regime threats
Washington: At least 22 countries had joined an initiative to ensure safe navigation in the Hormuz Strait, according to head of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato).
Mark Rutte, Secretary General of Nato military alliance, revealed that 22 nations — including both Nato members and partners such as Japan, South Korea, Australia — and the Gulf states have agreed to closely coordinate actions to ensure freedom of navigation in the narrow waterway.
His remarks came amid tensions within the alliance afterPresident Donald Trump criticised Nato alliesfor not doing enough to support US operations, including securing shipping routes through Hormuz.
Rutte acknowledged the frustration but said allied coordination was now underway.
He noted that operational timelines remained under discussion, with military planners working on deployment details. “One of the key questions is… the when question,” he said.
Rutte's remarks address mounting frustration among allies over delays in responding to escalating threats in the Strait of Ho…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
US, Iran Agree To Halt Attacks, Resume Negotiations, Official Says
US, Iran Agree To Halt Attacks, Resume Negotiations, Official Says
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WASHINGTON -- The United States and Iran have agreed to halt tit-for-tat attacks, meet again for talks, and allow shipping to flow safely through the Strait of Hormuz, a US official told RFE/RL, with one media report saying the talks will take place in Qatar.
"Technical talks are slated to continue on all areas of the [memorandum of understanding]. Both sides will stand down for now, and vessels can move freely [through the strait]," the official said late on June 28.
Axios, also citing a US official, reported the two sides plan to meet on June 30 in the Qatari capital, Doha.
"We decided to stop all the kinetic activity," Axios quoted the US official as saying, using the term generally referring to military strikes.
German news agency dpa, quoting a senior US administration official, reported that Washington expects further talks in the coming days. No location was given.
"Nothing has been canceled," the official told dpa.
Tehran didn't comment and its position on continuing talks was not immediately known.
The remarks come after Iran, citing US attacks on the country and what it said were vio…
U.S.-Iran deal signing gets more ships moving in Strait of Hormuz, but big ...
U.S.-Iran deal signing gets more ships moving in Strait of Hormuz, but big ...
What to know about the Iran war:
At least 10 commercial vessels were transiting the Strait of Hormuz Thursday morning amid a noticeable increase in traffic hours after President Trump and his Iranian counterpart
signed the agreement
between the two countries.
The
memorandum of understanding
signed Wednesday is to reopen the Strait of Hormuz immediately and initiate broader direct negotiations between the U.S. and Iran on a range of contentious issues, including Tehran's nuclear program.
Israel is negotiating with the U.S., according to the Reuters news agency, as it seeks to keep forces deployed in southern Lebanon amid the country's parallel fight against Hezbollah, which the U.S.-Iran agreement says must now end. Iran had said that Israeli forces remaining in Lebanon would be considered a violation of the deal.
New Updates
16m ago
Stranded ships have begun transiting the Strait of Hormuz, maritime data company says
Major shipowners have begun moving vessels through the Strait of Hormuz since the U.S. and Iran signed an agreement Wednesday, according to maritime data company Lloyd's List Intelligence.
…
Iran war live: US launches attacks on multiple Iranian targets
Iran war live: US launches attacks on multiple Iranian targets
**Naval Tensions Escalate as Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Amidst U.S. Strikes**
In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, the United States has launched coordinated strikes against multiple targets within Iran, prompting a swift and assertive response from Tehran. In a defiant move, Iranian authorities have declared the complete closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane, to all maritime traffic. This development signals a significant and potentially destabilizing shift in the ongoing geopolitical standoff.
The U.S. military confirmed the strikes, though details regarding the specific targets and the extent of the operation remain limited. Officials stated the actions were in response to what they described as “provocative and destabilizing activities” by Iran. The nature of these activities has not been fully disclosed, fueling speculation and concern across international diplomatic and economic circles. The precision and scope of the U.S. offensive are expected to be a key focus of subsequent reporting as more information becomes available.
The immediate and most impactful consequence of th…
FRANCE 24 Exclusive: what Strait of Hormuz locals think of the Iran-US deal
FRANCE 24 Exclusive: what Strait of Hormuz locals think of the Iran-US deal
Since the US-Israel strikes on Iran began on February 28th the Strait of Hormuz has effectively been blocked - a key strategy by Iran that upended global oil supplies and pressured its opponents. But what has it meant for the seafarers stranded there? Or those who call its islands home? With plans for the key shipping channel to be fully reopened after Friday June 19, FRANCE 24's correspondent Reza Sayah headed out onto the water to talk with people in the region.
UNITED STATES appealed SWITZERLAND in White House, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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AP
Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:37 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV reported the IRGC Nav…
UNITED STATES appealed SWITZERLAND in White House, District of Columbia, United States
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
Shippers remain cautious on Hormuz strait transit after US and Iran agree deal
Shippers remain cautious on Hormuz strait transit after US and Iran agree deal
Shippers said confidence in resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz could take weeks to rebuild and navigation will only restart once safety is assured, after US and Iran officials said they had agreed on a framework deal to reopen the waterway.The US and Iran are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding to end their war, halt the US blockade of Iran and reopen the strait on Friday. Global oil prices fell about 4 percent on Monday in response.For all the latest headlines follow our Google News channel online or via the app.Shippers have welcomed news of the deal, but are still waiting for more details - including mine clearance in the strait.“The market is clearly pricing in a return to business as usual, but after months of disruption, (ship) owners and charterers alike will likely remain cautious until ships are consistently moving freely through Hormuz once again,” analysts at Sentosa Ship Brokers said in a note.War largely stopped shipping through straitThe US-Israeli
UNITED STATES engaged diplomatically IRAN in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Residents swim and play in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz while cargo ships and commercial vessels lie anchored in the distance off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 10, 2026.(Razieh Poudat/ISNA via AP)
By
Associated Press
PUBLISHED:
June 12, 2026 at 11:46 AM EDT
| UPDATED:
June 12, 2026 at 11:51 AM EDT
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By MUNIR AHMED, COLLIN BINKLEY and RUSS BYNUM
ISLAMABAD (AP) — The United States and Iran are close to signing an agreement aimed at
ending their war
, three regional officials told The Associated Press on Friday. A senior U.S. official said the tentative deal includes terms for removing and destroying nuclear material from Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted Friday on X that an agreement “has never been closer.” He gave no details, saying a final deal was still pending.
The apparent breakthrough in negotiations comes after Iran
exchanged fire
with the U.S. and Israel over three days this week, threatening to return the Middle East to full-scale war.
U.S. President Donald Trump has said multiple times in recent weeks that the countries were on the cusp of a deal. The war launched by the U.S. and Israel on Feb. 28 has …
Analysis-How Iran's 'golden weapon' of Hormuz became a bigger pri
Analysis-How Iran's 'golden weapon' of Hormuz became a bigger pri
Published byGlobal Banking & Finance Review
Posted on July 8, 2026
· Last updated: July 8, 2026
By Parisa Hafezi and Angus McDowall
DUBAI, July 8 - Control over the Strait of Hormuz has become a "golden weapon" to Iran, for which it is willing to risk new escalations with the United States, and is a bigger priority than a nuclear programme for which it accepted decades of sanctions.
So central is the issue to Iranian strategy that ships passing the Strait without Tehran's approval were fired upon this week, leading to an exchange of fire with the United States that threatens last month's interim peace deal.
Iranian leaders, who had demurred for years from choking off the fifth of global energy supplies passing through Hormuz, now see it as their strongest card in a host of disputes with the West, and the reason Washington ended the war.
"Recognise the new Iranian order in the Strait of Hormuz: this is the only way forward," wrote Ebrahim Azizi, a member of the Iranian parliament's national security and foreign policy committee on social media, addressing the United States.
While their insistence on maintaini…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
What's in the proposed deal that could end the US-Iran conflict?
What's in the proposed deal that could end the US-Iran conflict?
Ships remain anchored in the Strait of Hormuz on May 16.
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Summary
The US and Iran have reached a tentative deal to turn their ceasefire into a lasting settlement, though neither Trump nor Iran's supreme leader is known to have approved it.
The memorandum would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, lift the US blockade on Iranian ports and start 60-day talks on Iran's nuclear program.
Key sticking points include Iran's uranium stockpile, frozen assets and whether the conflict in Lebanon will end.
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
Iran and the United States have
reached a tentative agreement
to turn the existing ceasefire into a more long-lasting settlement, US officials said Thursday.
However, President Donald Trump hasn’t signed off on the proposal. It is also not clear whether Iran’s supreme leader has given his approval, believed to be another necessary step toward ending the conflict. Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, citing unnamed sources close to the negotiating team, reporte…
IRAN provided aid TERRORIST GROUP in Gaza, Israel (general), Israel
Residents swim and play in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz while cargo ships and commercial vessels lie anchored in the distance off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 10, 2026.
(Razieh Poudat / Associated Press)
By
Munir Ahmed, Collin Binkley and Russ Bynum
June 12, 2026
8:58 AM PT
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The U.S. and Iran are nearing a landmark agreement to end months of war, require Tehran to dismantle its nuclear program and halt support for militant groups, officials say.
The emerging deal would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, ease sanctions and release frozen Iranian assets, potentially calming energy markets roiled by blocked Gulf shipments and a U.S. naval blockade.
Brokered largely by Pakistan with backing from regional powers, the tentative truce faces hurdles from Israel’s hard line on Hezbollah and President Trump’s shifting threats amid a fragile cease-fire.
ISLAMABAD —
The United States and Iran are close to signing an agreement aimed…
US, Iran may sign Geneva memorandum by Sunday as Hormuz reopening nears
US, Iran may sign Geneva memorandum by Sunday as Hormuz reopening nears
TheUnited States and Iran are expected to sign a memorandumas early as Sunday, likely in Geneva, that could reopen theStrait of Hormuzand halt fighting across multiple fronts in the Gulf, according to Reuters sources familiar with the negotiations. Officials, however, cautioned that the wording of the agreement is still being finalised and no final deal has yet been reached.
A Reuters source said Iran has remained firm that any agreement with Washington must also bring an end to the war in Lebanon, where Israel has been battling the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement.
The memorandum is expected to be signed byUS Vice President JD Vanceand Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf. Geneva has emerged as the likeliest location. The aim, according to sources, is to finalise the wording by Saturday so the agreement can be formalised over the weekend.
Trump, who had threatened further strikes on Iran just hours earlier on Thursday night, said he was now calling them off as a deal was ready. “We just made a great settlement of the war with Iran,” he told reporters at the White House on Thursday. He added that …
US-Iran News LIVE: US says downed multiple Iran drones as both insist ...
US-Iran News LIVE: US says downed multiple Iran drones as both insist ...
US-Iran News LIVE: Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday announced that the peace deal is in final stages and signaled that the United States and Iran had arrived at an agreement to end the war. This development came almost an hour after US President Donald Trump blamed Iran for the attack on Indian ships sailing near the Strait of Hormuz.
In a social media post on X, Abbas Araqchi stated, “The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding has never been closer. Pending its finalization, the media should refrain from entering speculation about its content. In line with our responsible and transparent approach, all details will be shared with the public in due course.”
Donald Trump shared Abbas Araqchi tweet on his Truth Social platform a day after he claimed that the United States called off planned military strikes on Iran, citing progress in talks. Trump wrote, “Discussions and final points have been, in both concept and great detail, approved by all parties involved, including the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, Egypt, and others. The …
Iran's Unexpected Resilience - The Atlantic
Iran's Unexpected Resilience - The Atlantic
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By the United States military’s estimation, about 1,550 marine vessels—oil tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, and more—are idling in the Persian Gulf right now. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively blockaded, their crews, many of them uninvolved in the ongoing war with Iran, are slowly using up supplies as they await safe passage through the mine-filled waterway. Donald Trump
announced
on Sunday that the U.S. would rescue these “victims of circumstance” by guiding them out of the war zone in an
as-yet-unspecified way
. On Monday, though, Iran’s military rejected the plan, warning that American military forces would be attacked if they approached the strait.
Both sides fired shots yesterday, although the U.S. claims that the cease-fire remains in place. The fact that Iran’s leaders are apparently willing to risk violating the delicate monthlong truce emphasizes just how fiercely they want to protect
their …
When Will Strait of Hormuz Reopen? What We Know Amid US-Iran Peace Deal
When Will Strait of Hormuz Reopen? What We Know Amid US-Iran Peace Deal
The Strait of Hormuz could begin reopening in the coming days following the newly announced US-Iran peace agreement, although a full return to normal shipping operations is likely to take longer. The strategically important waterway, through which roughly 20% of the world's oil shipments and a significant share of global liquefied natural gas exports pass, has been heavily affected by months of conflict between Washington and Tehran.
US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the strait would reopen following the formal signing of
the agreement
later this week. "The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all!" Trump wrote.
Breaking It Down
What are Iran's conditions for vessels in Hormuz?
How has the US military responded to the situation?
What challenges remain for shipping in the Strait of Hormuz?
Created with AI. Errors are possible
"I hereby fully authorize the toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorize the immediate removal of the United States Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines."
In a separate statement, Tr…
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz, per Iranian state TV
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz, per Iranian state TV
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state TV reports
A ship ran aground in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state TV reports
It's unclear what exactly will happen if the US and Iran sit down in Qatar today. Here's President Donald Trump explaining what will happen if the meeting takes place. The meeting in Doha is going to be Perhaps important, perhaps not. We're going to find out. But we're winning militarily. It's almost won militarily, I would say. There's *** lot of back and forth. President Trump said the Islamic Republic requested *** meeting with the US, but Iran's senior negotiators denied talks had been scheduled. On Monday, the White House said Special Envoy Steve Wootkopf and Jared Kushner, the president's son-in-law, were flying to Qatar following *** weekend of strikes. It appears the US and Iran paused attacks for now, as *** US official told us both sides will. Stand down. This comes as hostilities were mounting in the Strait of Hormuz, the waterway that sees nearly 10% of the world's oil traffic. Iran's foreign minister insists Tehran must control the strait despite the Trump administrati…
US vies with Iran for Strait of Hormuz as UAE comes under attack | AP News
US vies with Iran for Strait of Hormuz as UAE comes under attack | AP News
President Donald Trump downplayed tensions with Iran Tuesday, calling the conflict a “skirmish” and claiming the U.S. has “total control.” He said Iran is quietly negotiating and “wants to make a deal,” as a fragile ceasefire holds amid new attacks.
A container ship sits at anchor as a small motorboat passes in the foreground in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Saturday, May 2, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
An Iranian tugboat floats in the foreground as cargo ships sit at anchor in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Monday, May 4, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
A patrol boat moves through the water as cargo ships sit at anchor in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Saturday, May 2, 2026.(Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
A bulk cargo ship sits at anchor in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Saturday, May 2, 2026.(Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
Two men sit in a small boat on the water as cargo ships are anchored in the background in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, May 4, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
DUBAI, United Arab …
Iran's Effort to Impose a New Maritime Order in the Strait of Hormuz ...
Iran's Effort to Impose a New Maritime Order in the Strait of Hormuz ...
By Seth Cropsey and Dr. Avi Davidi
US-Iran MOU and the Strait of Hormuz
On June 17, 2026, the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), establishing a framework for ending hostilities, restoring maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, and launching negotiations toward a final agreement. Paragraphs 4 and 5 of the MOU will help destroy the freedom of international navigation on which untrammeled global seaborne commerce depend.
Paragraph 4 provides that the United States will remove its naval blockade and other impediments affecting Iran and ultimately withdraw forces from the vicinity of Iran following a final agreement. Paragraph 5 commits Iran to facilitate the safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz and grants Tehran responsibility for demining operations and the restoration of maritime traffic. Most significantly, Paragraph 5 states that Iran will conduct discussions with Oman and other Persian Gulf littoral states regarding the future administration and maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz.
These provisions do…
Iran war news highlights: US imposes new sanctions on Tehran's military ...
Iran war news highlights: US imposes new sanctions on Tehran's military ...
Iran war news highlights: US imposes new sanctions on Tehran's military oil sales amid reports of breakthrough in deal
By
Nikita Sharma
,
Priyanjali Narayan
Updated on: May 29, 2026 7:32:00 AM IST
Iran war news highlights: The US has imposed sanctions on eight vessels accused of helping transport Iranian crude oil and petroleum products. Among the ships named were the Marshall Islands-flagged tanker Flora, the Comoros-flagged crude oil tanker Hauncayo, and the Panama-flagged tanker Ill Gap.
Key Events
2:02 AM IST, May 29
LIVE blog closed
11:52 PM IST, May 28
CENTCOM denies Iranian claim of US aircraft shot down near Bushehr
10:40 PM IST, May 28
Vance says US, Iran have made ‘a lot of progress’ toward deal
10:22 PM IST, May 28
Russian envoy says Iran nuclear dispute needs ‘compromised solution’
10:01 PM IST, May 28
UK maritime agencies raise threat level in Strait of Hormuz, Persian Gulf
9:15 PM IST, May 28
Iran state TV claims US aircraft destroyed in Bushehr province
9:06 PM IST, May 28
US imposes fresh sanctions on Iran’s military oil trade
8:49 PM IST, May 28
Iran says explosion sounds were caused by ai…
Strait of Hormuz 'open': How soon will global shipping return to normal ...
Strait of Hormuz 'open': How soon will global shipping return to normal ...
The United States and Iran have announced a breakthrough agreement aimed at ending months of hostilities, with both sides saying the deal will come into force on Friday. As part of the arrangement, US President Donald Trump said Washington will lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports and reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz once the agreement is formally signed.
“The deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete. Congratulations to all!” Trump said in a post on Truth Social.
“I hereby fully authorise the toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and, simultaneously herewith, authorise the immediate removal of the US Naval blockade. Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” Trump added to the post.
While the announcement has raised hopes of easing tensions in the region and restoringglobal shipping flows, details of the agreement remain unclear.
Prime MinisterShehbaz Sharifannounced that US and Iran had agreed to an immediate and permanent ceasefire across all fronts, including Lebanon.
In a post on X, Sharif said the agreement would be formally signed in Switzerl…
First tankers cross strait after Iran deal; Israeli strikes stir
First tankers cross strait after Iran deal; Israeli strikes stir
Published byGlobal Banking & Finance Review
Posted on June 18, 2026
· Last updated: June 18, 2026
By Maya Gebeily, Rami Ayyub and Jonathan Saul
BEIRUT/JERUSALEM/LONDON, June 18 (Reuters) - Three Saudi-flagged supertankers carrying 6 million barrels of crude sailed through the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump signed a deal with Iran to end the war that has disrupted global energy supplies.
But in Lebanon, where more than a million people are displaced by the fighting, Israeli forces launched fresh airstrikes on Thursday morning, raising doubt about how far Trump will go to force his wartime allies to halt an offensive he has now pledged to end.
Trump put his signature on Wednesday on the "memorandum of understanding" to end the war, as did Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, bringing it into effect two days earlier than previously expected. It calls for the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and lifting of a U.S. blockade of Iran's ports.
Though shippers say it will still take time for transit across the strait to reach pre-war levels, with a need yet to ensure safe a…
Strait of Hormuz would be 'permanently toll-free' under US-Iran peace ...
Strait of Hormuz would be 'permanently toll-free' under US-Iran peace ...
US President Donald Trump today claimed that the deal with Iran would keep the key shipping route 'permanently toll-free, according to aThe New York Timesreport. Reportedly, Trump also insisted that if Iran does not reach a final nuclear agreement with the United States, talks for which his aides expect to begin in Switzerland on Friday, he would either resume military attacks on Iran or have the US act as the 'guardian of the Middle East' in exchange for 20% of the region’s revenues.
Trump further added that the agreement would also prevent Iran from threatening Israel and claimed it had saved Israel from a potential nuclear attack, despite opposition from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In a phone interview with theNYT, Trump said his decision to attackIranin late February and later impose a naval blockade after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz had reshaped the Middle East in America's favour.
Quick answers to key questions
The US-Iran peace deal includes the permanent toll-free opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the US Naval blockade, allowing oil shipments to flow freely ag…
Macron Says G7 To Discuss Iran Deal, Reopening Of Strait
Macron Says G7 To Discuss Iran Deal, Reopening Of Strait
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As the US-Israeli war with Iran continues to impact and shape the region, journalists from RFE/RL's Central Newsroom and Iranian service, Radio Farda, deliver ongoing updates and analysis.
Key Takeaways
Iran's Bank Coordination Council announced that four Iranian banks had suffered a "limited cyberattack" and saw business disrupted.
In a statement issued late on June 13, the council acknowledged that "restrictions" continued for customers of four Iranian banks -- Melli, Tejarat, Export, and Export Development -- and promised that "banking services will return to normal in the shortest possible time and with the highest level of security."
Iranian media previously reported that the services of the banks were disrupted simultaneously, making it impossible to use their mobile banking or ATMs.
"The disruption caused by a cyberattack was limited to these four banks, and fortunately, no unauthorized access to customer information occurred and no information leakage occurred," the council said in the statement.
Attacks on Iran's banking network have been a common occurrence in recent years, and the information of custo…
Iran strikes three vessels near Strait of Hormuz as Trump arrives at ...
Iran strikes three vessels near Strait of Hormuz as Trump arrives at ...
Tankers and cargo vessels are seen in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea, on June 16, 2026.
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Iran fired on three commercial vessels Tuesday in Oman’s territorial waters near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a US official.
The official described the strikes as a “gross violation” of the memorandum of understanding with Iran. The third strike had not previously been reported. The US has a broad range of potential responses to the alleged violations and is considering all of them, according to the official.
The Qatari-flagged vessel al-Rakiyat, a liquefied natural gas tanker, was “passing near” the key waterway when it was struck, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry said Tuesday. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) center said the attack was reported at 9:19 p.m. UTC on Monday, which was 1:19 a.m. Tuesday in the Persian Gulf. CNN has reached out to Qatar’s Foreign Ministry for more details on the strike that hit the Qatari vessel.
The attack occurred hours bef…
Trump announces blockade after peace talks fail - NBC News
Trump announces blockade after peace talks fail - NBC News
EVENT ENDED
Last updated April 12, 2026, 11:21 PM EDT
Trump announces blockade after peace talks fail
Iranian state media said "excessive demands" sank the possibility of an agreement, while Vice President JD Vance said his "final and best offer" was still on the table.
U.S. CENTCOM says blockade of Iranian ports begins Monday
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Updated
April 12, 2026, 11:21 PM EDT
By NBC News
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What to know
TRUMP THREATENS STRAIT OF HORMUZ BLOCKADE:
President
Donald Trump
said that, “effective immediately,” the U.S. Navy will prevent ships from passing through the
Strait of Hormuz
, accusing Iran of extorting them. He had previously criticized Iran for blocking the critical oil shipping chokepoint.
IRANIAN PORT BLOCKADE:
U.S. Central Command said it will implement a blockade of all maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports starting at 10 a.m. ET tomorrow. The blockade will not affect vessels using the Strait of Hormuz to and from non-Iranian ports, it said.
NO AGREEMENT IN PAKISTAN:
Talks in Islamabad
, where a U.S. delegation was meeting for f…
Inside Iran's Selective Strait of Hormuz Blockade: Friendly Nations ...
Inside Iran's Selective Strait of Hormuz Blockade: Friendly Nations ...
Philippines latest to secure passage as Tehran tightens control
Iran has begun selectively allowing oil and cargo vessels from certain countries to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, offering rare relief to a handful of import-dependent nations even as it maintains an effective chokehold on one of the world’s most critical energy routes.
The latest to secure passage is the Philippines, which said Tehran has pledged safe transit for its oil shipments as Manila grapples with a deepening fuel crisis triggered by the ongoing Middle East war. The move underscores how access to the strait is now being shaped by geopolitical alignments rather than open maritime norms.
Traffic through Hormuz remains drastically reduced. Since early March, vessel movement has dropped to a fraction of normal levels, with just 142 ships transiting the waterway — roughly what would typically pass in a single day, according to maritime data cited byLloyd’s List.
The Philippines has emerged as the latest country to secure safe passage. Manila said Iran has pledged to allow oil shipments to transit through the strait, offering a critical…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran military says Strait of Hormuz will be "completely closed" if U.S ...
Iran military says Strait of Hormuz will be "completely closed" if U.S ...
Follow
updates on the war in the Middle East for Monday, March 23, here
. See earlier developments below.
What to know about the Iran war:
President Trump threatened to "obliterate" Iran's power plants, starting with its largest one, if the
Strait of Hormuz
is not reopened within 48 hours. Iran's military said it will retaliate by striking U.S. infrastructure in the region, according to state media.
Later, Iran's military warned that the Strait of Hormuz would be "completely closed" if the U.S. were to deliver on Mr. Trump's threats.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after
separate Iranian strikes
hit southern Israel, injuring more than 100 people, urged other nations to join the war against Iran, saying, "it's for the security of the entire world."
New Updates
2:52 AM / March 23, 2026
Iran issues apparent indirect threat to Mideast power plants including UAE nuclear facility
After Iran threatened power plants across the Mideast, news outlets published a list of such facilities, including the United Arab Emirates' nuclear power plant.
The report by the semiofficial Fars news agency, close to its pa…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
U.S. denies Iran struck a military vessel during new effort to reopen ...
U.S. denies Iran struck a military vessel during new effort to reopen ...
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The U.S. military on Monday denied claims that Iran struck a U.S. Navy vessel as American forces are offering to guide commercial ships through theStrait of Hormuz, where hundreds have been stuck since theIran warbegan. Over the past two months, Tehran has attacked some vessels and blocked others that don’t receive its authorization.
The U.S. military’s Central Command also said two American-flagged merchant ships have “successfully transited through the Strait of Hormuz” and that Navy guided-missile destroyers in the Persian Gulf are helping to restore commercial shipping traffic.
The statement on X said the destroyers transited the Strait of Hormuz “in support of Project Freedom” and that the merchant ships are ” safely headed on their journey.” It did not say when the Navy ships arrived or when the merchant vessels departed.
Iranian news agencies, including the semiofficial Fars and the Iranian Labour News Agency, had earlier claimed that Iran struck a U.S. vessel near an Iranian port southeast of the strait, accusing it of “violating maritime security and navigation …
Iran sparks fresh tensions by declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed as US ...
Iran sparks fresh tensions by declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed as US ...
Just days after signing a
60-day peace deal
with the United States, Iran has sparked fresh tensions by declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the strategic waterway was shut and warned ships not to approach, citing Israeli strikes in Lebanon as a breach of commitments made under the peace agreement.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Iran shuts Strait of Hormuz amid peace deal dispute
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However, US Central Command rejected the claim, insisting Iran does not control the Strait and that commercial traffic continues to flow through the route.
According to US officials, 55 merchant vessels transited the Strait on Saturday, transporting more than 17 million barrels of oil and other cargo to global markets.
Former CIA officer Mike Baker told Sunrise on Sunday the dispute highlighted a major challenge facing negotiators.
“The problem is that the US says that Iran doesn’t control the Strait… but it doesn’t matter because all Iran has to do, in a sense, to control the Strait is say it’s closed,” he said.
“That then creates…
The first tankers carrying Iranian oil exited a US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a tracking website said on Wednesday, two days before Washington and Tehran launch talks on an agreed peace deal st...
The first tankers carrying Iranian oil exited a US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a tracking website said on Wednesday, two days before Washington and Tehran launch talks on an agreed peace deal still scant on details, including Iran’s nuclear programme and the lifting of sanctions.
Trump and Iran reach agreement that includes opening Strait of Hormuz
Trump and Iran reach agreement that includes opening Strait of Hormuz
• Diplomatic breakthrough:
The US and Iran say they have
reached an agreement
that will
take effect
on Friday. President Donald Trump said the US is
lifting its naval blockade
on Iranian ports, and that
the Strait of Hormuz will reopen
after the agreement is signed.
The full text has not yet been released.
•
What comes next:
The US and Iran have offered conflicting accounts of the next steps after a
signing ceremony
on Friday. Iran’s deputy foreign minister said negotiations will begin when the
US releases billions in frozen funds
, but an American official has
rejected the claim.
• Lebanon conflict:
Israel has yet to comment on the agreement. Israeli forces
launched airstrikes in Beirut
earlier Sunday before news of the agreement. Trump criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,
calling him “a very difficult guy.”
• Oil prices down:
Brent crude and US crude prices fell
on Sunday after the agreement was announced.
Read more
All
catch up
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Traffic moves past the Iranian national flag displayed on a building at Enghelab square in Tehran on Sunday.
Stringer/AFP/Getty Images
The US and Iran on…
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iranian Oil Tankers Exit Hormuz Blockade Zone Ahead of US–Iran ...
Iranian Oil Tankers Exit Hormuz Blockade Zone Ahead of US–Iran ...
Tehran (TDI):The first Iranian oil tankers have exited a US naval blockade zone in the Strait of Hormuz ahead of planned US–Iran deal signing ceremony scheduled to be arranged in Switzerland later this week, according to vessel-tracking data cited by monitoring services.
The TankerTrackers website, which monitors global oil shipments using satellite imagery and digital tracking systems, said at least two large crude carriers operated by the National Iranian Tanker Company had left the restricted zone carrying millions of barrels of oil. A third tanker was also later reported to have followed.
The movements mark what analysts described as Iran’s first significant crude oil exports in roughly two months, coinciding with growing expectations of a diplomatic breakthrough between Washington and Tehran.
The developments come just days before both sides are expected to begin formal negotiations in Switzerland on a final settlement framework aimed at ending the conflict and reopening key shipping lanes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The agreement, which has not yet been officially published, is expected to address multi…
US intel assesses Iran can shut down the Strait of Hormuz at will from ...
US intel assesses Iran can shut down the Strait of Hormuz at will from ...
Ships and boats in the Strait of Hormuz near Musandam, Oman, on May 1, 2026.
Reuters
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Summary
US intelligence agencies have assessed that Iran can now effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz at will, according to three sources familiar with the findings.
A US official said Iran can only access benefits of the framework agreement if the strait remains open and it abides by other agreed-upon points.
Iran has also learned it can leverage targeted strikes against Gulf energy infrastructure and potentially deploy Houthi forces to close another critical waterway.
AI-generated summary was reviewed by a CNN editor.
US intelligence agencies have recently assessed that Iran can effectively shut down access to the
Strait of Hormuz
at will from now on, meaning the country’s regime has acquired a powerful new ability to hurt the global economy as a result of the war, according to three sources familiar with the findings.
Regardless of the framework agreement that is due to be formally si…
IRAN provided aid TERRORIST GROUP in Gaza, Israel (general), Israel
Residents swim and play in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz while cargo ships and commercial vessels lie anchored in the distance off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 10, 2026.(Razieh Poudat/ISNA via AP)
By
Associated Press
PUBLISHED:
June 12, 2026 at 11:46 AM EDT
| UPDATED:
June 12, 2026 at 11:51 AM EDT
Getting your
Trinity Audio
player ready...
By MUNIR AHMED, COLLIN BINKLEY and RUSS BYNUM
ISLAMABAD (AP) — The United States and Iran are close to signing an agreement aimed at
ending their war
, three regional officials told The Associated Press on Friday. A senior U.S. official said the tentative deal includes terms for removing and destroying nuclear material from Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted Friday on X that an agreement “has never been closer.” He gave no details, saying a final deal was still pending.
The apparent breakthrough in negotiations comes after Iran
exchanged fire
with the U.S. and Israel over three days this week, threatening to return the Middle East to full-scale war.
U.S. President Donald Trump has said multiple times in recent weeks that the countries were on the cusp of a deal. The war launched by the U.S. and Israel on Feb. 28 has …
IRANIAN consulted PARLIAMENT in Minab, Sistan va Baluchestan, Iran
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Iran Doubles Down on Fight for Control over Strait of Hormuz
Iran Doubles Down on Fight for Control over Strait of Hormuz
An aerial 3D illustration render of cargo ships stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. Image: iStock/quantic69
Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei iswarning of a "new chapter"in the fight for control of the Strait of Hormuz, as the vital waterway remains closed to the vast majority of shipping traffic.
In a statement from Khamenei read by an anchor on Iranian state television and reported byThe New York Times, the supreme leader vowed to eliminate "the enemy's abuses" of the waterway, and asserted that "new management of the strait will bring comfort and progress for the benefit of all nations of the region." He went on to emphasize that Iran will continue to guard its "modern technological capacities," including its nuclear and missile capabilities.
“By the will and power of God, the bright future of the Persian Gulf region will be a future without America,” he said.
Khamenei stressed that Iran has no intention of relinquishing control of the Strait of Hormuz, and that the country plans to implement new legal frameworks for managing the waterway moving forward. This comes as President Donald Trump has threatened tokeep a…
First tankers cross strait after Iran deal - The Economic Times
First tankers cross strait after Iran deal - The Economic Times
Reuters
BEIRUT/JERUSALEM/LONDON: Three Saudi-flagged supertankers carrying 6 million barrels of crude sailed through the
Strait of Hormuz
on Thursday, hours after U.S. President Donald Trump signed a deal with Iran to end the war that has disrupted global energy supplies.
But in Lebanon, where more than a million people are displaced by the fighting, Israeli forces launched fresh airstrikes on Thursday morning, raising doubt about how far Trump will go to force his wartime allies to halt an offensive he has now pledged to end.
Trump put his signature on Wednesday on the "memorandum of understanding" to end the war, as did Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian, bringing it into effect two days earlier than previously expected. It calls for the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz and lifting of a U.S. blockade of Iran's ports.
Though shippers say it will still take time for transit across the strait to reach pre-war levels, with a need yet to ensure safe access and clear mines, there were immediate signs of an impact.
Ships which once might have concealed their positions by switching off their transponders were …
US seizes Iranian-flagged cargo ship near Strait of Hormuz as ... - AP News
US seizes Iranian-flagged cargo ship near Strait of Hormuz as ... - AP News
The United States said it forcibly seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship that tried to pass its naval blockade near the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, the first such interception since the blockade of Iranian ports began last week.
Pakistani authorities on Sunday prepared to host a second round of talks between Iran and the United States, despite questions about whether the negotiations will take place. Authorities deployed troops at checkpoints, closed tourist sites and instructed major hotels to limit bookings to ensure availability.
During Israel’s invasion of southern Lebanon over the past weeks, Israel’s air force destroyed several bridges on the Litani river. After a 10-day ceasefire was declared as of midnight Thursday, the Lebanese army and the Litani Authority had been working on putting temporary bridges to replace the destroyed ones. (AP video by Mohammad Anouti and Fadi Tawil)
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said his country isn’t for a new round of face-to-face talks with the US because the Americans “have not abandoned their maximalist position.” On Friday, US President Donald…
IRAN engaged diplomatically UNITED STATES in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Residents swim and play in the waters of the Strait of Hormuz while cargo ships and commercial vessels lie anchored in the distance off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 10, 2026.(Razieh Poudat/ISNA via AP)
By
Associated Press
PUBLISHED:
June 12, 2026 at 11:46 AM EDT
| UPDATED:
June 12, 2026 at 11:51 AM EDT
Getting your
Trinity Audio
player ready...
By MUNIR AHMED, COLLIN BINKLEY and RUSS BYNUM
ISLAMABAD (AP) — The United States and Iran are close to signing an agreement aimed at
ending their war
, three regional officials told The Associated Press on Friday. A senior U.S. official said the tentative deal includes terms for removing and destroying nuclear material from Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted Friday on X that an agreement “has never been closer.” He gave no details, saying a final deal was still pending.
The apparent breakthrough in negotiations comes after Iran
exchanged fire
with the U.S. and Israel over three days this week, threatening to return the Middle East to full-scale war.
U.S. President Donald Trump has said multiple times in recent weeks that the countries were on the cusp of a deal. The war launched by the U.S. and Israel on Feb. 28 has …
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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AP
Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
'Ironclad blockade' if Iran doesn't fulfil deal, US warns - RTÉ
'Ironclad blockade' if Iran doesn't fulfil deal, US warns - RTÉ
Updated / Thursday, 18 Jun 2026 16:25
Copies of Iran's daily newspaper Hamshahri with the headline 'Gone With the Wind' on sale in Tehran
The United States will restart military action and reimpose a blockade if Iran does not fulfill its commitments under an agreement to end the Middle East war, according to US defence secretary Pete Hegseth.
"The president [Donald Trump] has pointed out that we will be prepared to recommence if underneath the timeline of these talks, Iran does not do what it says it's going to do," Mr Hegseth said in Brussels after meeting NATO defence ministers.
"If Iran doesn't comply, then we're more than able to reimpose an ironclad blockade."
His comments came as Mr Trump hit out at critics of the deal, describing those who accused him of offering concessions to Iran as "fools", ahead of negotiations in Switzerland on implementing the accord.
Oil prices tumbled after Mr Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian separately signed the agreement.
It allows for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen but two months of negotiations lying ahead.
Three Saudi-flagged tankers, carrying six million barrels of …
'Hormuz will never return to pre-war status': Iran Speaker asserts ...
'Hormuz will never return to pre-war status': Iran Speaker asserts ...
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf Monday claimed that the Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre-war operational status, while asserting that Iran will manage the strategic waterway, Iranian state mediaPress TVreported.
Speaking in an interview to Press TV, Ghalibaf said Iran would exercise control over the key maritime passage, while adhering to international regulations. “Everyone should know that the administration of the Strait of Hormuz will never go back to the way it was before the war,” he said, adding, “Of course, international regulations will be observed, but Iran will administer the Strait of Hormuz.”
His comments come after he returned from Switzerland concluding theinitial round of high-stakes talkswith the United States as part of the 14-point memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two sides.
Ghalibaf, addressing the media, also informed that Iran successfully demonstrated its negotiating leverage during talks in Switzerland, and claimed Tehran was able to influence the outcome of discussions,Press TVquoted.
Additionally, Iran was able to push the US to revise a…
Iran's New Supreme Leader Says Strait Of Hormuz Will Stay Closed, Warns ...
Iran's New Supreme Leader Says Strait Of Hormuz Will Stay Closed, Warns ...
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Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, reportedly said on Thursday that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed.
According to an Al Jazeerareport, Khamenei warned in a televised address that Iran will attack all U.S. bases in the region if they are not shut down.
He also called for national unity amid an intensifying war with the U.S. and Israel.
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Khamenei added that Iran is willing to maintain warm relations with its neighbors, while urging these countries to clarify their positions regarding the aggressors, referring to the U.S., which has bases across the Middle East, according to the letterpostedby the Tasnim News Agency.
“I recommend they close those bases as soon as possible because they must have understood by now that the American claim of establishing security and peace was nothing but a lie,” he added.
Khamenei stated that Iran will be compelled to continue attacking U.S. bases in the region without targeting the countries in question.
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President Donald Trump stated earlier on Thu…
WASHINGTON consulted SWITZERLAND in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
UNITED STATES consulted FRANCE in Evian-Les-Bains, RhôAlpes, France
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
By PA News Agency
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Tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea (AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Iran will immediately take steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a tentative deal with the US to end the war is signed and will be allowed to sell its oil without restrictions, according to leaked copies of an interim agreement that officials say broadly matches the document.
The accord, due to be formally signed in a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday, lays out that the US would secure at least 300 billion dollars (£223 billion) to rebuild Iran after the war.
And it would work to end all American and United Nations sanctions imposed on Tehran if a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear programme is reached.
The US agreement to allow Iran to sell its oil freely immediately and the offer to eventually lift all sanctions re…
U.S. Denies Iran Report That Naval Ship Was Hit by Missiles
U.S. Denies Iran Report That Naval Ship Was Hit by Missiles
Photo: iStock / Dimitrios Karamitros
The U.S. denied a report by Iranian media on May 4 that the country had struck an American naval vessel with missiles, Axios reported citing a senior official. Oil prices and stocks pared back some of their earlier moves.
Brent crude had jumped around 5% to over $113 a barrel and stocks fell after Fars reported a strike on a U.S. frigate near the Gulf of Oman port of Jask following ignored warnings from the Islamic Republic’s navy. The U.S. boat was forced to retreat and flee the area, Fars reported, citing unnamed sources.
Shortly before, Tasnim, another Iranian news agency, announced the government had “redefined the control zone” in the Strait of Hormuz and effectively set out maritime borders within which Tehran would regulate shipping traffic.
The developments added to tensions, hours after President Donald Trump said the U.S. will help ships stranded in the Persian Gulf transit the strait, describing it as a “humanitarian gesture.”
The operation, dubbed Project Freedom, was set to begin on May 4, with the U.S. military pledging to provide support, including the use of guided…
Is Strait of Hormuz open or closed? Trump's 'takeover' threat to Iran ...
Is Strait of Hormuz open or closed? Trump's 'takeover' threat to Iran ...
US Vice PresidentJD Vanceis in Lake Lucerne,Switzerlandon Sunday representing the US in the meeting with Iran, Pakistan and Qatar to sign the US-Iran peace deal. Despite the ongoing talks, reports suggest that things still remain heated between the US and Iran despite the ongoing talks.
The reason for the heat is the row over the Strait of Hormuz. While the US-Iran peace deal was agreed upon on June 14, which mandated the opening of theStrait of Hormuzfully within 30 days, Iran closed it on Friday again after Israel attacked Lebanon. The attack, a statement from Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said, was a violation of the MOU of the peace deal and hence they are closing the Strait again.
As Vance met with Iranian officials for the first round of US Iran talks, the Strait of Hormuz remained closed with radar-indicated traffic volume going down to almost zero. Additionally shipping insurerChubb's CEO claimedthat the passage through the Strait of Hormuz remains a “hour to hour” situation, per Bloomberg. The outlet also reported that some traffic continues to flow through the Strait of Hormuz, wit…
How Iran is deciding who can and who can't pass through the Strait of ...
How Iran is deciding who can and who can't pass through the Strait of ...
Live updates: Follow the latest news on
US-Iran war
Japan is in talks with Iran for potentially opening
the Strait of Hormuz
to the former's vessels – a microcosm of the dilemma facing countries that need to use the key waterway.
Tehran has started talks with Tokyo about possibly opening the strait, Mr Araghchi told the Japanese news agency in a phone interview on Friday – a day after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited
US President Donald Trump
at the White House.
Iran may impose Strait of Hormuz transit fees
Read More
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Sides can talk, but given Iran's control and significant leverage over the strait, it might not be easy to strike a deal – unless the country has something to gain from it.
"The problem is that the ball is well and truly in Iran's court, and it is effectively the only meaningful card they have left to play," analysts at Sydney-based Fortress Family Office said.
"So why would Iran reopen it? Not out of goodwill, and not simply because of pressure. They will only do so if the incentives are compelling enough."
Which countries are able to use the strait?
Only less than 100 ve…
UNITED STATES consulted PRESIDENT in Evian-Les-Bains, RhôAlpes, France
Iran ‘will reopen Strait of Hormuz and can sell oil freely under deal with US’
By PA News Agency
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Tankers and cargo vessels in the Gulf of Oman, along shipping routes linking the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Sea (AP)
This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today,
and has been written by our American colleagues.
It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald.
Iran will immediately take steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz once a tentative deal with the US to end the war is signed and will be allowed to sell its oil without restrictions, according to leaked copies of an interim agreement that officials say broadly matches the document.
The accord, due to be formally signed in a ceremony in Switzerland on Friday, lays out that the US would secure at least 300 billion dollars (£223 billion) to rebuild Iran after the war.
And it would work to end all American and United Nations sanctions imposed on Tehran if a final agreement addressing Iran’s nuclear programme is reached.
The US agreement to allow Iran to sell its oil freely immediately and the offer to eventually lift all sanctions re…
Trump's Project Freedom Isn't Going to Open the Strait of Hormuz
Trump's Project Freedom Isn't Going to Open the Strait of Hormuz
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By experts and staff
Published
May 4, 2026 2:49 p.m.
Max Boot
CFR Expert
Jeane J. Kirkpatrick Senior Fellow for National Security Studies
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Max Boot is the Jeane J. Kirkpatrick senior fellow for national security studies at the Council on Foreign Relations.
President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the United States would launch an operation to help tankers and cargo ships trapped in the Persian Gulf transit the waterway. Two U.S. destroyers entered the Persian Gulf on Monday, and two U.S.-flagged commercial ships exited it. Iran hit back by attacking commercial ships and targeting the United Arab Emirates with missiles and drones for the first time since the ceasefire began on April 8. Iranian forces also fired on U.S. warships, and U.S. forces responded by destroying six Iranian small boats.
Trying to open the Strait of Hormuz by force could reignite the wider conflict and expose U.S. warships to Iranian attacks in a narrow waterway with little time to react. All of this could quickly render “Project Freedom”—with its vague pledges of military help but no announcement of actual convoy operations—anoth…
"Will Not Return to Pre-War Conditions": Iran Defies Donald Trump by ...
"Will Not Return to Pre-War Conditions": Iran Defies Donald Trump by ...
Iran has said it will charge ships looking to cross the Strait of Hormuz, directly contradicting US President Donald Trump’s claim of a toll-free Hormuz even beyond the 60-day period of negotiations.
Ruling out a return to “pre-war conditions” in Hormuz, a key maritime chokepoint, Iranian lead negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf told state media this fee will come into effect after 60 days of negotiations agreed under the MoU, according to reports.
“Strait of Hormuz will not return to pre-war conditions. Iran has the right to sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and of course we will receive a fee for services,” Ghalibaf said after the 14-point MoU was digitally signed by Trump and his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian on Thursday.
Trump has repeatedly said he won’t accept tolls being imposed on the route that was the conduit for a fifth of global petroleum and liquefied natural gas supply before February 28, when US and Israel struck Iran, plunging the region in the over 100-day war.
Most recently at the G7, a day before the MoU was signed, Trump reiterated that Hormuz is going to be opened “toll-fr…
Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone ahead of peace talks
Iranian tankers exit US blockade zone ahead of peace talks
Negotiations on final deal start immediately after Swiss signing ceremony and continue during 60-day window
The first tankers carrying Iranian oil exited a US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, a tracking website said on Wednesday, two days before Washington and Tehran launch talks on an agreed peace deal still scant on details -- including Iran's nuclear programme and the lifting of sanctions.
The talks on a final settlement are set to begin Friday at Switzerland's Burgenstock mountain resort, as news that the Hormuz Strait will reopen sent world oil prices tumbling.
Optimism that the war triggered by the February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Tehran might be coming to an end was dented, however, by fresh Israeli strikes on south Lebanon.
The TankerTrackers website, which monitors oil shipments and storage, marked Iran's "first crude oil exports in two months", citing digital tracking data corroborated by satellite imagery.
"At least two National Iranian Tanker Company (NITC) VLCC supertankers named DIONA (9569695) and HERO2 (9362073) have exited the US Navy blockade perimeter carrying a combined total of 3.8 million barre…
U.S.-Iran deal updates: Israel says no Lebanon withdrawal ... - CBS News
U.S.-Iran deal updates: Israel says no Lebanon withdrawal ... - CBS News
What to know about the Iran war today:
Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard said Monday that under the
U.S.-Iran deal
set to be signed this week, the country will receive half of its roughly $24 billion in long-frozen funds before final negotiations begin during a 60-day ceasefire extension. A U.S. official said Iran would get none of the money until it demonstrates compliance with the deal's terms.
Israeli officials said the country is not bound by the
U.S.-Iran agreement
to end its fight with Hezbollah or to pull its forces out of Lebanon. President Trump, Pakistani mediators and Iran said the deal includes a cessation of hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon.
President Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will reopen Friday after the deal is signed, and the U.S. naval blockade on Iran will be lifted. The price of Brent crude oil fell more than $4 a barrel after the agreement was announced.
New Updates
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American prisoners held in Iran not discussed during negotiations, Iranian official says
An Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson told CBS News on Monday that the negotiations between the U.S. and…
U.S. lifts blockade of Iran as oil tankers began freely moving through the ...
U.S. lifts blockade of Iran as oil tankers began freely moving through the ...
A man stands beside a fishing pole along the shore as cargo ships and commercial vessels are seen in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Wednesday, June 17, 2026. (Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
WASHINGTON — The U.S. on Thursday lifted its blockade of Iran, and oil tankers began freely moving through the Strait of Hormuz after months of being unable to use the critical channel, as the tentative agreement to end the war took effect.
Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance announced that he may postpone a trip to Switzerland that had been planned for Friday and included a ceremonial signing of the deal. The visit might have helped start talks on the next, potentially even more critical, round of negotiations between the two sides.
Hours later, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtab Khamenei endorsed direct negotiations with the U.S. in a statement read by state media. It was Khamenei’s first reaction to the deal recently reached between Iran and the U.S. to end hostilities.
“It is obvious that the face-to-face negotiations that will be held in the future will not mean accepting the enemy’s opinion,…
What to know about possible Iran war deal | AP News
What to know about possible Iran war deal | AP News
Cargo ships, including bulk carriers and general cargo vessels, sit at anchor offshore as a small motorboat passes in the foreground, in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Monday, May 4 , 2026.(Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
A woman crosses an intersection in northern Tehran, Iran, Tuesday, May 26, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
An anti-U.S. graffiti is painted on a wall as flowers are displayed by a street vendor in downtown Tehran, Iran, Sunday, May 24, 2026. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi)
Container ships sit at anchor in the Strait of Hormuz off Bandar Abbas, Iran, Saturday, May 2, 2026.(Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA via AP)
CAIRO (AP) — The United States and Iran appear to be closing in on a deal to endthe warand open theStrait of Hormuz.
U.S. and Iranian negotiators on Thursday reached a tentative agreement to extend theceasefirein the 3-month-old war by 60 days and start a new round of talkson Iran’s nuclear program, according to a U.S. official familiar with the matter.
Iran did not immediately confirm any deal. Vice President JD Vance on Thursday evening confirmed there was a tentative agreement, but said it was uncl…
Why are some ships going through Strait of Hormuz during a blockade ...
Why are some ships going through Strait of Hormuz during a blockade ...
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How do shipowners navigate Trump's blockade?
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The United States’ blockade of Iranian ports has been “fully implemented” and put a halt to most of Tehran’s economic activity in just a day and a half, the head of US Central Command said Wednesday.
“An estimated 90% of Iran’s economy is fueled by international trade by sea. In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, US forces have completely halted all economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea,” Adm. Brad Cooper said in a statement on social media.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) said earlier no vessels have breached the blockade since its implementation.
At the same time, reports are emerging of some commercial traffic transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the strategic chokepoint between Iran and Oman through which 20% of the world’s oil exports and 80% of Iran’s oil exports travel.
But that commercial traffic doesn’t automatically negate Cooper’s cla…
How Iran Hopes to Control the Strait of Hormuz—It's Not Just About Fees
How Iran Hopes to Control the Strait of Hormuz—It's Not Just About Fees
One of Iran’s primary objectives in the current negotiations is to secure its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. This objective is more important for Tehran than securing fees from merchant vessels as they transit the Strait. Many Iranian officials have said that their goal is to ensure Iranian sovereignty over the strait, and this demand has featured prominently in negotiations to end the Iran War.[i]Tehran may be willing to “trade” this objective for major gains on the nuclear program, sanctions relief, the release of frozen funds, or a large-scale US withdrawal from the region.[ii]But all of these “trades” are still bad from a US perspective and accomplish other key Iranian strategic objectives. US and world vital interests require denying Iran control of the strait by negotiations or by force.
Iran likely sees two paths to controlling the strait. First, Iranian control could be officially recognized by the United States through an agreement. Other countries would probably oppose such recognition, but changing the new status quo would be extremely challenging. Second, Iran could maintain the current si…
Trump rules out Iran Hormuz tolls, says US would be entitled instead
Trump rules out Iran Hormuz tolls, says US would be entitled instead
By
Steve Mollman
Weekend Editor
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President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Saturday that
Iran
won't be allowed to charge fees to ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz during or after a 60-day ceasefire window, adding that if negotiations collapse, the United States would be justified in imposing tolls instead, framing it as compensation for security provided in the region.
The comments mark a new flashpoint in negotiations over the strait, a critical oil corridor that had operated toll-free before the war began in late February but has since become a
source of leverage
for both sides. A broader ceasefire agreement
reached this week
between Washington and Tehran includes a 60-day toll-free period for the strait and a halt to fighting across multiple fronts, but the two sides now diverge on what follows. With U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland, the dispute over who controls—and potentially profits from—the waterway has emerged as …
Iran latest: US fires missile at cargo ship for trying to breach Iranian port ...
Iran latest: US fires missile at cargo ship for trying to breach Iranian port ...
The Brief
President Donald Trump has not announced his "final determination" on an Iran peace deal.
U.S. forces stopped a cargo ship trying to run its blockade by firing a missile into its engine room.
The current proposal would extend the ceasefire for 60 days to allow for more talks on Iran’s nuclear program.
The fate of Iran peace negotiations remains unknown as
President Donald Trump
has yet to announce publicly if the United States will agree to the current ceasefire deal on the table.
Heading into the weekend, the president indicated he wanted to make the "final determination" on the proposal that has been weeks in the making and would be expected to allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen fully. With traffic through the strait slowed to a trickle, the U.S. blockade of Iranian shores remains in effect and, on Saturday, stopped another ship trying to run it.
A missile was fired into the engine room of a Gambia-flagged cargo ship after its crew ignored more than 20 warnings by American forces, U.S. Central Command confirmed. It is the sixth ship trying to breach the blockade that was stopped by the …
ISRAEL demanded ISRAEL in Jerusalem, Israel (general), Israel
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
As Iran, US reach peace deal, a look at decades-long nuclear standoff
As Iran, US reach peace deal, a look at decades-long nuclear standoff
The United States and Iran Sunday agreed to end the three-and-a-half-month war in the Middle East, easing the transit of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Confirming the deal, US President Donald Trump said that Washington would end its naval blockade on traffic through Iranian ports, marking the biggest breakthrough in months of negotiations.
1967 —The programme started with US assistance after America supplied the Tehran Research Reactor supplied under the “Atoms for Peace” initiative.
1979 —Amid protests, US ally Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, fatally ill, fled Iran, paving the way for Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s return to Tehran. Khomeini was catapulted to power by the Islamic Revolution, and a 444-day hostage crisis began as the students seized the US Embassy in Tehran, souring US-Iran ties. This also temporarily stalled Iran’s nuclear programme.
2002 — 2003: As intelligence agencies exposed Iran’s secret Natanz nuclear enrichment facility, Britain, France, and Germany engaged with Iran over nuclear negotiations. Under international pressure, Iran suspended uranium enrichment.
2006 —After the election …
Unattributed party consulted IRANIAN in Tehran, Tehran, Iran
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as U.S.-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
,
Chandelis Duster
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Hassan Ammar
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, on Thursday.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 6:47 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as Iranian and U.S. negotiators prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed, leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadca…
Why is the Strait of Hormuz blocked despite US- Iran ceasefire? Key ...
Why is the Strait of Hormuz blocked despite US- Iran ceasefire? Key ...
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Reuters
Strait of Hormuz ceasefire crisis is raising urgent questions as Donald Trump’s US-Iran deal shows signs of collapse amid rising oil route tensions, tighter shipping limits, and growing global market risks
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical shipping routes in the world. Nearly one-fifth of global oil passes through this narrow channel daily. Any disruption instantly shakes energy markets and global supply chains. Right now, the
Strait of Hormuz blocked
situation is creating ripple effects across continents. Oil prices have surged, insurance costs have spiked, and shipping companies are hesitating. Even a slight slowdown here can trigger inflation pressures worldwide. That is why this developing crisis matters far beyond the Middle East.
Even if limited passage is allowed, compa…
US, Iran agree to halt Hormuz attacks, hold talks about strait in Qatar on Tuesday — report
US, Iran agree to halt Hormuz attacks, hold talks about strait in Qatar on Tuesday — report
<p>US official says sides to stand down 'for now' after Tehran skips technical talks scheduled for Sunday; Iran's FM threatens to 'increase tensions' if ships don't traverse route it controls</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com/us-iran-agree-to-halt-hormuz-attacks-hold-talks-about-strait-in-qatar-on-tuesday-report/">US, Iran agree to halt Hormuz attacks, hold talks about strait in Qatar on Tuesday — report</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com">The Times of Israel</a>.</p>
<figure><img src="https://static-cdn.toi-media.com/www/uploads/2026/06/AFP__20260627__B8J469E__v1__HighRes__OmanIranUsIsraelWar-1024x640.jpg" title="US, Iran agree to halt Hormuz attacks, hold talks about strait in Qatar on Tuesday — report" border="0" width="160" height="100" class="type:primaryImage"></figure>
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Hormuz Strait Crisis: US-Iran Blockade Standoff May 2026 - Maritime News
Hormuz Strait Crisis: US-Iran Blockade Standoff May 2026 - Maritime News
Strait of Hormuz Deadlocked as US Blockade and Iran's Closure Create Dual Chokepoint
Published:
May, 3 2026
The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed following a breakdown in negotiations between Iran and the US, despite an agreement between them and a ceasefire agreement. US naval blockades of Iranian ports continue while Iran restricts transit through this essential waterway, and negotiations over reopening it have stalled due to unresolved nuclear program discussions.
Dual Blockades Last Through Early May
As of May 2, 2026, the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed due to competing blockades which have stopped approximately one-fifth of seaborne oil trade and 20 percent of global LNG deliveries. The US Navy has maintained its blockade on Iranian ports since April 13, while Iran continues restricting transit through this waterway and warning shipping companies against paying tolls to pass safely through this vital chokepoint.
President Trump likened US Navy enforcement of Iran's blockade to piracy on May 2, while simultaneously warning that it could extend for months. Furthermore, shipping compa…
Hormuz: Iran's Golden Weapon in Global Standoff | Law-Order
Hormuz: Iran's Golden Weapon in Global Standoff | Law-Order
Hormuz: Iran's Golden Weapon in Global Standoff
Iran regards control of the Strait of Hormuz as a crucial strategic tool, a priority even over its nuclear program. The waterway's strategic significance led to recent tensions with the United States. Iran sees the strait as leverage in global disputes and is unwilling to relinquish control.
Devdiscourse News Desk
|
By Parisa Hafezi And Angus Mcdowall Dubai
|
Updated: 08-07-2026 21:46 IST | Created: 08-07-2026 21:46 IST
This image is AI-generated and does not depict any real-life event or location. It is a fictional representation created for illustrative purposes only.
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Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz has become a key strategic concern, seen as more crucial than its nuclear program, leading to renewed tensions with the U.S. this week. Ships bypassing Tehran's approval were fired upon, threatening recent peace efforts, emphasizing the strait's geopolitical significance.
The Iranian stance is driven by distrust, partly due to previous U.S. policy reversals, including the abandonment of the nuclear deal in 2018. Top Iranian officials consider Hormuz a vital point…
US-Iran Peace Deal Live: As Iran rejects Doha talks, JD vance calls it ...
US-Iran Peace Deal Live: As Iran rejects Doha talks, JD vance calls it ...
South Korea’s Oceans Ministry said the HMM-operated cargo vesselNamu, damaged in a May attack, is expected to leave the Strait of Hormuz in late July after repairs in Dubai. The ship has remained stranded since the conflict began on February 28. Iran denies responsibility, while Seoul says responsibility remains unconfirmed.
The US and Gulf allies have imposed sanctions on key parts of Hezbollah’s financial network through the Terrorist Financing Targeting Center,Al Jazeerareported. Measures target 16 individuals and five entities, including Al-Qard al-Hassan and Bayt al-Mal, aiming to disrupt Hezbollah’s funding and support infrastructure.
Senior Iranian officials are reportedly avoiding a high-profile appearance in Doha as criticism grows in Tehran over delays in implementing the US-Iran MoU. Analyst Alex Vatanka said sceptics question promised sanctions relief, asset releases and regional commitments, raising concerns the Trump administration may not deliver.
-Al Jazeera
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would launch further strikes on Iran if necessary, insisting Tehran would not…
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
Iran says Strait of Hormuz shut as US-Iran talks set for Sunday in Switzerland
NPR |
By
Willem Marx
Published June 20, 2026 at 6:02 AM EDT
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Buildings damaged by Israeli strikes are seen through shattered glass from the Jabal Amel Hospital in the southern port city of Tyre, Lebanon, Thursday, June 18, 2026.
Updated June 20, 2026 at 2:00 PM EDT
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon, even as the two countries prepare to meet Sunday in Switzerland for talks.
The U.S. military, meanwhile, denied the claim that the strait was closed – leaving a key piece of the freshly signed Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries up in the air.
On Saturday Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed,
according to state-controlled Iranian media
, citing what it called "the explicit breach of the first clause of the post-war memorandum of understanding by the United States" and the latest exchange of fire between Israel and the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. Iran's state broadcaster Press TV repor…
'Ships Are Starting To Move Out of Hormuz': Trump Claims on Truth ...
'Ships Are Starting To Move Out of Hormuz': Trump Claims on Truth ...
Donald Trump
, just hours after announcing the
Iran
deal, on Monday informed that ships have started to move out of the
Strait of Hormuz
, with many of them loaded up with oil. Trump, in his Truth Social post, said that they are going along the Southern ‘Highway,' which is totally safe, secure, and pristine. He added that there are other areas of travel also.
"Ships are starting to move, many loaded up with oil, out of the Strait of Hormuz. They are going along the Southern 'Highway,' which is totally safe, secure, and pristine. There are other areas of travel also," Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Trump made the announcement that an initial deal was reached on the Iran war on late Sunday night, apparently the timing co-existed with his 80th birthday, with people viewing the 'deal' as a 'birthday breakthrough'. The deal will be signed on coming Friday, June 19, in Switzerland's Geneva. It will be hosted by Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and is expected to be attended by Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, and Iranian representatives.
Breaking It Down
What is Project Freedom?
How has Iran's Revolutionary Guards impacted sh…
Iran: Mines, broken logistics, damaged infrastructure: it will take ...
Iran: Mines, broken logistics, damaged infrastructure: it will take ...
Nuria Salobral
Jun 16, 2026 - 16:39
CEST
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After three and a half months of war, the United States and Iran
have reportedly reached an agreement
that will end the conflict and allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen. Oil, natural gas, and fuels will once again flow through the Middle East, thereby
averting a critical point
where reserves would have been depleted and an irreversible economic recession would have struck much of the world. The price of oil has fallen sharply following the announcement of the agreement, in an initial reaction of relief from governments, businesses and consumers, but a return to normalcy will not be an easy task—and it is by no means imminent.
A daunting task lies ahead, starting with the
de-mining of the Strait
. Restoring traffic to normal levels requires clearing the shipping lanes until they are deemed safe by shipping companies and the insurers that cover the risks. This will be followed by the manageme…
Unattributed party consulted PARLIAMENT in Minab, Sistan va Baluchestan, Iran
Whats going on with US-Iran talks and the Strait of Hormuz
Washington and Tehran are sending conflicting messages ahead of follow-up discussions in Switzerland
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains tense following the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran, as the countries' delegations descend on Switzerland for follow-up discussions.
Commercial shipping through the key waterway was disrupted after the US-Israeli attack on Iran in February, and its reopening has become one of the key points of the memorandum signed by President Donald Trump on Wednesday. Washington promised to lift its own blockade of Iranian ports, while Tehran would gradually "make arrangements using its best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels."
Trump touted the preliminary deal as an "immediate reopening," announcing that "the oil is flowing" after the first tankers sailed through - before Tehran claimed to have shut down the waterway again.
What does Iran say?
Tehran accused Washington of failing to fulfill its commitments and force Israel to stop its "crimes" in Lebanon. The Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters military command announced on Saturday tha…
Trump Declares He Is Lifting The Naval Blockade On Iran (Updated)
Trump Declares He Is Lifting The Naval Blockade On Iran (Updated)
(U.S. Navy photo)
The TWZ Newsletter
Weekly insights and analysis on the latest developments in military technology, strategy, and foreign policy.
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Privacy Policy
President Donald Trump on Friday announced he was lifting
the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports
enacted last month. The move comes amid media reports and administration messaging that Washington and Tehran
appear to be drawing closer to a deal
that could lead to ending the conflict.
Iranian officials have rejected that notion
.
TWZ
cannot confirm either side’s assertions.
“Ships caught in the Strait due to our amazing and unprecedented Naval Blockade, which will now be lifted, may start the process of ‘heading home!’” Trump proclaimed on Truth Social, referring to the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic chokepoint has been largely closed to most traffic by Iran since
not long after the launch of Epic Fury on Feb. 28
.
pic.twitter.com/kTepK9K1Lh
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47)
May 29, 2026
Trump’s comments may reflect a still
unsigned Memorandum of Agreement with Iran
that paves the way for reopening the Strait and is designed to create …
Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 16, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer
Vessels at the Strait of Hormuz, as seen from Musandam, Oman, June 16, 2026. REUTERS/Stringer
By Parisa Hafezi and Angus McDowall
DUBAI, July 8 - Control over the Strait of Hormuz has become a "golden weapon" to Iran, for which it is willing to risk new escalations with the United States, and is a bigger priority than a nuclear programme for which it accepted decades of sanctions.
So central is the issue to Iranian strategy that ships passing the Strait without Tehran's approval were fired upon this week, leading to an exchange of fire with the United States that threatens last month's interim peace deal.
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Iranian leaders, who had demurred for years from choking off the fifth of global energy supplies passing through Hormuz, now see it as their strongest card in a host of disputes with the West, and the reason Washington ended the war.
"Recognise the new Iranian order in the Strait of Hormuz: this is the only way forward," wrote Ebrahim Azizi, a member of the Iranian parliament's national security and foreign policy committee on social media, addressing the United States.
While their insistence on maintaining control over the waterway risks becoming an…
ultrasurfing.com/top-stories/start-your-engines-shipping-groups-wary-on ...
ultrasurfing.com/top-stories/start-your-engines-shipping-groups-wary-on ...
Jun 15 2026
Hundreds of oil tankers and cargo ships have been stuck inside the Gulf since the war erupted on February 28
London (AFP) - Shipping groups warned Monday that it was too soon to start sailing through the Strait of Hormuz following US and Iranian promises that the trade route would reopen under their agreement to end the war.
US President Donald Trump on Sunday declared: “Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!”, as he announced the agreement to halt the conflict.
A “memorandum of understanding” between the two nations stipulated the “reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within 30 days”, as quoted by Iran’s Mehr news agency.
Hundreds of oil tankers and cargo ships have been stuck inside the Gulf since the war erupted on February 28. Iran has targeted ships and charged tolls for a small number to pass through the strait.
Shipping and seafarers’ associations said leaders had not yet given enough detail to prompt the ships to start exiting.
They “do not offer sufficient information regarding key aspects such as timings and safe routes”, Jakob Larsen, chief security officer at …
An Iranian official says the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all nations except ships from enemy countries. More details: www.ukbreakingnews24x7.com/world/irania... #Iran #Hormuz #Shipping #OilMarket...
An Iranian official says the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all nations except ships from enemy countries. More details: www.ukbreakingnews24x7.com/world/irania... #Iran #Hormuz #Shipping #OilMarkets #Energy #MiddleEast #WorldNews #BreakingNews
Iran CLOSES vital shipping route Strait of Hormuz for first time since ...
Iran CLOSES vital shipping route Strait of Hormuz for first time since ...
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IRAN has fired back at the United States’ scare tactics by closing off the world’s most strategic oil shipping route for the first time since the 1980s.
Supreme tyrant Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
threatened to sink US warships
lurking in the Persian Gulf yesterday in another escalation of tensions amid nuke talks.
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10
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)’s closed off the vital Strait of Hormuz to conduct military drills
Credit: EPA
10
A missile is fired during a military drill called ‘Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz’
Credit: Getty
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10
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Hosseini Khamenei has blasted the United States’ scare tactics
Credit: Getty
10
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps carried out naval drills in the Persian Gulf
Credit: Getty
10
The Strait of Hormuz was subsequently closed as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps carried out live-fire naval drills in a rare show of force.
It marks the first time the crucial Gulf chokepoint, through which 20 …
Corroboration
No verdict, no pronouncement. The model extracts atomic factual claims with verbatim quotes; every quote is validated against the source text and corroboration is computed by counting how many editorially-opposed blocs assert each fact. 3 fabricated/unverifiable quotes were rejected by the cite-or-die gate.
The spine · 3 facts corroborated across ≥2 opposed blocs
2×broadly confirmedThe United States and Iran agreed on a framework deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
gulfmideast_ind
alarabiya“after US and Iran officials said they had agreed on a framework deal to reopen the waterway.”
almonitor“after the U.S. and Iran agreed on a framework deal to reopen the waterway.”
2×broadly confirmedThe United States and Iran are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on Friday to end their war, halt the U.S. blockade of Iran and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
gulfmideast_ind
alarabiya“The US and Iran are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding to end their war, halt the US blockade of Iran and reopen the strait on Friday.”
almonitor“U.S. and Iranian officials are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding to end their war, halt the U.S. blockade of Iran and reopen the strait on Friday.”
2×broadly confirmedShippers remain cautious about resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz; confidence could take weeks to rebuild.
gulfmideast_ind
alarabiya“Shippers said confidence in resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz could take weeks to rebuild and navigation will only restart once safety is assured”
almonitor“Shippers in Asia and Europe said confidence in resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz could take weeks to rebuild and navigation will only restart once safety is assured”
Contested · 3 — sources conflict; shown, not resolved
⚔ different percentage reported
A gulf Global oil prices fell about 4 percent on Monday in response to the deal.
B mideast_ind Global oil prices fell about 5 percent on Monday in response to the deal.
⚔ conflicting statements about whether the strait was closed
A other Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon.
B other The United States military denied that the Strait of Hormuz was closed.
⚔ conflict between claimed lifting of blockade and reported continued restrictions
A other President Trump claimed the U.S. naval blockade on Iran would be lifted and said the Strait of Hormuz should be immediately open with unrestricted shipping and any water mines removed.
B other Despite President Trump's claim, Iranian ships are still being barred from passing through the Strait of Hormuz; restrictions remain and vessels continue to receive warnings from U.S. Central Command not to enter the area.
Single-source · 14 — reported by one bloc only (uncorroborated)
Global oil prices fell about 4 percent on Monday in response to the deal.
alarabiya
Global oil prices fell about 5 percent on Monday in response to the deal.
almonitor
President Donald Trump said the memorandum of understanding with Tehran was signed electronically.
aljazeera
Iranian vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz after the United States lifted its naval blockade.
aljazeera
Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, the United States will immediately lift its blockade of Iranian ports.
france24
Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding, Iran will reopen the Strait of Hormuz and will not charge tolls for commercial vessels for a period of 60 days.
france24
Iran's military said it has closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israel's latest strikes in Lebanon.
gdelt
The United States military denied that the Strait of Hormuz was closed.
gdelt
U.S. intelligence says Iran now possesses the capability to effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz.
timesofindia
The United States and Iran agreed to halt Hormuz attacks and hold talks about the strait in Qatar on Tuesday.
timesofisrael
Iran's foreign minister threatened to increase tensions if ships do not traverse the route it controls.
timesofisrael
President Trump claimed the U.S. naval blockade on Iran would be lifted and said the Strait of Hormuz should be immediately open with unrestricted shipping and any water mines removed.
prokerala.com
Despite President Trump's claim, Iranian ships are still being barred from passing through the Strait of Hormuz; restrictions remain and vessels continue to receive warnings from U.S. Central Command not to enter the area.
prokerala.com
Three Iranian oil tankers were transiting the Strait as part of the negotiations.
bluesky
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