Iran‑U.S. clash over Hormuz Strait deepens as MoU collapses

Iran’s military spokesperson warned that the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed until the United States accepts Tehran’s legal framework for the waterway, calling it a “national imperative.” The United States, while saying Iran continues talks, has resumed strikes on Iranian positions and re‑imposed a naval blockade, citing Iranian attacks on commercial vessels. The interim Memorandum of Understanding signed in June, which was meant to halt hostilities, restore shipping and launch further diplomatic talks, has effectively collapsed, with both sides accusing the other of violations.

International shipping firms are avoiding the U.S‑controlled alternative corridor along Oman’s coast, fearing Iranian strikes, and traffic through the Hormuz channel has dropped sharply. Iran’s armed forces pledge to defend the strait and have threatened to involve allied groups such as the Houthis if the U.S. escalates further. The dispute has revived regional tensions, threatening global oil supplies and commercial navigation.