Iran re-closes Strait of Hormuz after Israeli strikes hit Lebanon
Why it matters: About 20% of global oil and LNG passes through the waterway, though US Central Command said shipping was still moving Saturday.
Iran’s military said it closed the Strait of Hormuz again after Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon, tying the move to what Tehran called a breach of its war-ending deal with the United States. The Revolutionary Guard Navy warned vessels not to approach the waterway, a critical route for roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade. US Central Command disputed any immediate disruption, saying safe passage remained intact and 55 merchant ships had transited Saturday. The closure followed a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah that took effect Friday but quickly frayed. Lebanon’s health ministry said at least 20 people were killed in southern Lebanon in less than 24 hours, while Israel and Hezbollah accused each other of repeated violations.