Monday, April 20, 2026

Iran closes Strait of Hormuz amid US standoff

Iran reversed its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, reimposing restrictions on the critical waterway after the United States said its naval blockade of Iranian ports would remain in force until a deal is reached. The IRGC declared the strait under full military control, with gunboats firing on vessels attempting to pass, as a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran is set to expire Wednesday. Negotiations between the two sides have made some progress but remain far from a final agreement, with key sticking points including Iran's nuclear program and the status of the strait.