Blow to Trump as Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Amid Peace Talks

Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route, despite ongoing efforts to hold peace talks with the administration of US President Donald Trump.

The decision was announced on Saturday, June 20, 2026, by Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, the country’s joint military command.

Iranian media reported that the waterway would be closed to shipping traffic with immediate effect.

Iran said the move was in response to what it claims are violations of a ceasefire agreement by the United States and Israel.

Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Closure Is Response to Ceasefire Violations

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy later said the closure applies to all vessels and warned ships against approaching the strategic waterway.

The force claimed the decision was prompted by Israeli military actions in Lebanon and what it described as Washington’s failure to uphold ceasefire commitments.

Also Read: Iran Reopens Strait of Hormuz After Signing Agreement With Trump

Iranian authorities cautioned that vessels attempting to enter the strait could face security risks.

State media reported that Iranian officials described the move as the “first step” in Tehran’s response, aimed at pressuring its opponents to honour the terms of the agreement.

They also warned that further measures could follow if the alleged ceasefire violations continue.

At the same time, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the United States should take responsibility for ensuring that Israel halts its military operations against Hezbollah.

The ministry argued that the Trump administration has a role to play in enforcing the terms of the ceasefire and preventing further escalation in the region.

Peace Talks Continue Despite Rising Tensions

The development comes at a time when diplomatic efforts between Iran, the United States, and Israel continue.

The reported closure of the Strait of Hormuz comes as negotiations are underway to turn a recently signed memorandum of understanding into a wider peace and nuclear agreement.

Also Read: Kenya Welcomes US-Iran Peace Agreement, Backs Support for Dialogue and Stability

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is reportedly in Switzerland for follow-up talks with Iranian officials.

Senior Trump adviser Jared Kushner is also said to be involved in the discussions. Recently, US Vice President JD Vance expressed optimism, saying progress was being made and formal negotiations could begin soon.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to take part in the talks. Tehran has already sent a delegation to join the negotiations.

The discussions follow a US-Iran agreement reached earlier this week with the help of regional mediators.

The agreement is said to give both sides 60 days to negotiate a broader deal aimed at reducing tensions and avoiding further conflict.

The talks had initially been delayed by fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon.

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US President Donald Trump speaking at a past event. PHOTO/White House