Iran Re-Closes Strait of Hormuz as US Tensions Escalate; Pakistan Pushes Mediation Efforts

ISLAMABAD: Iranian military has announced that it has again closed Strait of Hormuz for international shipping following US move to continued blockade of the strait for Iranian shipping.

Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters spokesperson has announced that transit through the Strait of Hormuz has reverted to its previous state of strict military control, Iranian state media Press TV reports.

The spokesperson cited “repeated US violations and piracy under the guise of blockade”, according to Press TV.

State broadcaster IRIB quoted the spokesperson as saying: “Iran agreed to allow a limited number of ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz according to agreements. “But US did not fulfil their obligations. So, the Strait of Hormuz is now closed again and passage requires IRAN approval.”

Following announcement of ceasefire in Lebanon the Iranian Foreign Minister announced that Iran was opening Strait of Hormuz for international shipping.
The events started to move fast when President Trump also announced that Iranian government has agreed to accede to all the US demands regarding handing over of enriched uranium in US control. This is promptly denied by Iranian foreign ministry spokesman.

The fast pace of the developments was witnessed when Pakistan’s military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir arrived in Tehran for three days visit to discuss US-Iran mediation process which he himself was leading.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, Interior Minister Mr Mohsin Naqvi along with the delegation, concluded a three-day official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran.

During the visit, the Field Marshal called on the President of Iran, Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and held separate meetings with Speaker of the National Assembly Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Commander of Khatam ul Anbiya Headquarters Major General Ali Abdollahi.

The discussions were focused upon bringing sustainable peace to the region, with particular emphasis on the evolving regional security environment, ongoing diplomatic engagements, and collaborative measures aimed at promoting enduring peace and stability in the region. The Field Marshal underscored the need for dialogue, de-escalation, and peaceful resolution of outstanding issues through sustained diplomatic engagements.

The Field Marshal expressed deep appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Iranian leadership and the people of Iran. He conveyed sincere regards and best wishes from the President, the Prime Minister, and the people of Pakistan to the Iranian leadership, reaffirming Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen the historic and brotherly ties between the two countries.

The visit reflects Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to facilitate a negotiated settlement to the Middle East conflict and to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.