US reinstates naval blockade of Iranian ports

Washington announced on Tuesday that it has re‑imposed a naval blockade on Iran’s principal ports, less than a month after the United States and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) intended to ease regional tensions. The MoU, signed in early June, outlined steps for de‑escalation, including the release of detained sailors and the establishment of a maritime communication channel. U.S. officials said the blockade, which restricts the movement of commercial vessels within a 200‑nautical‑mile radius of the Strait of Hormuz, is being reinstated in response to renewed Iranian activities that they describe as violations of the agreement, including the alleged transport of weapons and the continued support for proxy groups in the region.

Iranian authorities condemned the action as “unlawful aggression” and warned of reciprocal measures, while several allied nations called for restraint and urged both sides to return to diplomatic negotiations. The United Nations has been asked to monitor the situation, and the International Maritime Organization noted that the blockade could affect global oil shipments. Analysts note that the renewed restrictions raise the risk of further escalation, underscoring the fragility of the recent diplomatic overtures.