US rejects Iran’s Strait of Hormuz closure claim as high-stakes talks begin in Switzerland
The United States has rejected Iran’s claim that it has closed the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, insisting that commercial shipping continues to move through the vital waterway.
US military officials said they are closely monitoring the region and ensuring freedom of navigation, despite announcements from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that the strait had been shut in response to alleged ceasefire violations.
The dispute comes as American and Iranian negotiators head to Switzerland for crucial talks aimed at turning a recently signed 60-day ceasefire agreement into a broader and more lasting peace deal. The negotiations follow months of conflict and are expected to focus on regional security, maritime access, and Iran’s nuclear programme.
Iran has accused the United States of failing to fully implement parts of the ceasefire agreement, particularly regarding ongoing tensions in Lebanon.
Tehran warned that energy flows through the Middle East could remain disrupted if its concerns are not addressed. Meanwhile, US officials maintain that vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains active and that maritime operations continue normally.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil exports. Any disruption to shipping through the passage could have major implications for international energy markets and global trade.
Analysts are closely watching the Switzerland talks, which are seen as a key test of whether both sides can build on the fragile ceasefire and prevent further regional escalation.
