Iran claims Strait of Hormuz closure ahead of US talks in Switzerland
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, in response to Israeli air strikes in southern Lebanon that have killed at least 32 people since Sunday. The claim comes as US and Iranian officials prepare for talks in Switzerland, raising questions about the impact on global shipping and the prospects for a diplomatic resolution.
The US military has rejected Iran's assertion, stating that it does not control the strait and that the waterway remains open to navigation. US President Donald Trump has warned of potential tolls on shipping if a deal with Iran is not reached, further escalating tensions.
US Vice President JD Vance is travelling to Switzerland for discussions with Iranian officials, where both sides are expected to outline the structure of negotiations. Iranian representatives are already present but have indicated that progress will depend on addressing the situation in Lebanon. Tehran has expressed readiness to continue diplomacy while calling on the US to ensure Israel adheres to any agreed terms.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran's parliamentary speaker and chief negotiator, invoked the victims of the Minab school tragedy in a social media post upon his arrival in Switzerland. He wrote that the innocent children of Minab and all martyrs of Iran are watching his actions, and he hoped not to bring shame upon them. The post included an image of him outside the aircraft carrying the Iranian delegation.
The talks in Switzerland are seen as a critical juncture in US-Iran relations, with both sides seeking to address longstanding disputes over Iran's nuclear programme and regional influence. However, the linkage between the talks and the conflict in Lebanon underscores the complex interplay of regional dynamics.
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically important chokepoint, through which about one-fifth of the world's oil passes. Any disruption to shipping could have significant economic repercussions globally. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts ongoing amidst heightened military posturing.
The developments come as Israeli strikes in Lebanon have drawn international condemnation, with dozens of civilian casualties reported. The United Nations has called for restraint and a return to dialogue.
