Iran Temporarily Closes Strait of Hormuz During US Talks

Iran temporarily announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid fresh indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States in Geneva. The move, described as a safety measure during live-fire drills, marked a rare escalation at a time of heightened regional tension.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes, is one of the most strategically sensitive maritime chokepoints globally.

Live-Fire Drills and Strategic Signalling

Iran’s state media reported that Revolutionary Guard forces fired live missiles toward the strait and declared it closed for several hours over “safety and maritime concerns”. It was the first time Tehran publicly announced a temporary closure of the waterway in this context.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a stern warning, signalling that Iran would respond strongly to any aggression. Analysts viewed the drills as a message to the international community that military action against Iran could disrupt global energy flows.

Geneva Talks and Diplomatic Signals

The military manoeuvres coincided with another round of indirect talks between Iranian negotiators and US envoys in Geneva, mediated by Oman. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later struck a more conciliatory tone, expressing hope for a sustainable and negotiated solution.

US representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner led the American delegation. While both sides reported limited progress, significant differences remain over uranium enrichment and stockpile levels. Iran insists its nuclear programme is peaceful, while Washington seeks firm guarantees that Tehran will not develop nuclear weapons.

US Military Buildup and Market Reaction

The United States has reinforced its military presence in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and accompanying destroyers are en route to the Middle East, joining other naval assets already deployed.

Oil markets reacted cautiously. Prices, which had risen amid escalating rhetoric, declined after the talks concluded, reflecting cautious optimism about diplomatic progress.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the oman/">Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
• Nearly one-fifth of global petroleum trade passes through the strait.
• Uranium enriched to 90% purity is considered weapons-grade.
• Oman has historically acted as a mediator between the US and Iran.

Regional Implications and Nuclear Standoff

Gulf Arab states have warned that any conflict could trigger wider instability in a region already strained by past conflicts. Iran has previously enriched uranium up to 60 per cent purity, close to weapons-grade levels. The outcome of ongoing negotiations will determine whether diplomatic engagement prevails over confrontation in one of the world’s most volatile geopolitical flashpoints.