Iranian state media affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has declared that Tehran will terminate negotiations with the United States and impose a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and fertilizer shipments. The agency further stated plans to “activate other fronts,” including the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
The announcement follows intensified Israeli military actions in Lebanon against Hezbollah, which Iran supports. Iran demands that Israel withdraw from territory it has occupied in Lebanon since the start of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with the Islamic Republic and its proxies in late February and cease attacks in Lebanon and Gaza.
Oil prices have surged by more than five percent following the threat to block the Strait of Hormuz. While Iran controls one side of the Strait, the Bab el-Mandeb—through which ships must pass to reach the Red Sea and Suez Canal—is significantly farther from Iranian control. However, Iran’s Houthi proxies in Yemen could still disrupt shipping.
Tasnim stated: “No dialogue will take place” until Israel withdraws and halts attacks. The announcement was made on June 1, 2026, amid escalating military tensions in the Middle East. President Donald J. Trump, who authorized strikes on Iranian targets such as radar systems as Iran targeted Kuwait over the weekend, wrote on social media that he remains optimistic about reaching a deal but complained that Democrats “chirping” about his approach is making this more difficult. He added: “Just sit back and relax, it will all work out well in the end – It always does!”
