A recent peace deal between the United States and Iran is in serious trouble. The agreement, signed on June 18, 2026, aimed to stop a military conflict that began in February. However, just two days later, Iran made a surprising announcement. Iran's military declared that the Strait of Hormuz would be closed to all ships. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy warned commercial vessels to stay away from the area, saying they would be in danger if they tried to pass.
The Strait of Hormuz is very important for the world's energy. It is a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, and about one-fifth of the world's oil and natural gas passes through it. Iran said it closed the strait because of recent Israeli bombings in southern Lebanon, which caused many deaths. Iran believes these attacks broke the new agreement with the US.
This situation is complicated because the peace deal was supposed to stop all military actions, but it did not mention Israel. Meanwhile, a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, which the US helped arrange, also failed quickly. Both sides accused each other of violations.
There is disagreement about whether the strait is actually closed. Iran insists it is, but the US Vice President stated that it remains open. If Iran enforces the blockade, it will violate the peace agreement. The deal promised Iran economic relief, including the removal of financial penalties and the ability to export oil freely, in exchange for keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for 60 days. Diplomats are now trying to save the agreement.