Iran Declares 'Re-blockade' of Strait of Hormuz; Negotiators Head to Switzerland

[Anchor]

As Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon continue, Iran has revoked its agreement with the U.S. to keep the Strait of Hormuz open and declared a re-blockade. With tensions rising once again between the U.S. and Iran, negotiation teams from both sides are gathering in Switzerland.

Report by Park Chan-bum.

[Reporter]

Iran announced on Saturday (June 20) local time that it is re-closing the Strait of Hormuz.

This comes just two days after maritime traffic through the strait resumed following the implementation of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran.

[Iranian State Media: The Iranian Navy has warned that vessels should not pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Those who do not follow instructions will face great danger.]

The ceasefire MOU included provisions guaranteeing the territory and sovereignty of Lebanon, and Iran has taken issue with Israel's continued attacks on southern Lebanon.

The U.S. stated that the Strait of Hormuz is not currently in a state of blockade and that it will remain vigilant.

The U.S. Central Command reported that as of yesterday, 55 merchant vessels had passed through the Strait of Hormuz, with over 17 million barrels of crude oil transported.

Despite Iran's declaration of a re-blockade, negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are expected to proceed.

The Iranian delegation arrived in Switzerland, the site of the negotiations, on Saturday.

U.S. Vice President Vance also suggested on Sunday (June 21) local time that face-to-face talks between the U.S. and Iran could take place.

[JD Vance / U.S. Vice President (Fox News): We plan to hold meetings as soon as representatives from Iran, as well as the governments of Pakistan and Qatar (mediators), arrive.]

Some analysts suggest that Iran's move to play the "re-blockade" card is a strategy to gain leverage in upcoming nuclear negotiations with the U.S.

President Trump has stated that if an agreement with Iran is not reached, the U.S. could impose transit fees for passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

(Video Editing: Park Chun-bae)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.