DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Iran announced the renewed closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, declaring that diplomatic efforts had failed and dismissing U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims of negotiations as illegitimate.
Iranian officials said there had been “no real negotiations,” accusing Trump of “negotiating with himself” while continuing military and political pressure in the region. The closure of the waterway — a critical artery for global oil shipments — marks a sharp escalation in tensions that are already reverberating across international markets and security alliances.
The move comes amid intensifying violence in Lebanon, where Benjamin Netanyahu has not agreed to a ceasefire. Israeli airstrikes have expanded in recent days, with reports of attacks in Beirut, Sidon and areas near Baalbek. Local officials and humanitarian sources report significant civilian casualties, including strikes on densely populated neighborhoods and a funeral procession.
Lebanese authorities said hundreds of civilians have been killed or injured in the latest wave of attacks. The government condemned the strikes as indiscriminate and warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis. There was no immediate detailed response from Israeli officials regarding specific targets, though Israel has previously said its operations are aimed at militant infrastructure.
Iran linked the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz directly to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon, arguing that continued military action made de-escalation impossible. Iranian state media described the closure as “permanent” unless broader regional hostilities cease.
The strait, which handles roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply, has long been a flashpoint in regional tensions. Any sustained disruption is expected to have immediate global economic consequences, including spikes in energy prices and concerns over supply stability.
International reaction has been swift. Several governments called for restraint and urged all parties to return to diplomatic channels, warning that further escalation could trigger a wider regional conflict.
Analysts say the situation reflects a breakdown in coordinated diplomacy, with competing military actions undermining any potential agreements. The absence of a unified ceasefire framework — particularly involving Israel and Lebanon — has complicated efforts to stabilize the region.
As of Tuesday evening, there were no indications that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen or that a ceasefire in Lebanon was imminent.
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