Middle East live: US-Iran talks to begin in Switzerland as Tehran says it has closed strait of Hormuz

Iran announced on Sunday that it is closing the Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli strikes in Lebanon, a move that will be a central topic in upcoming talks with the United States in Switzerland. Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that the "Zionist regime continues to violate its commitment in Lebanon," and this issue will be the primary focus of the discussions. The talks are also expected to address frozen Iranian funds and the nation's oil sales. Delegations from both countries have arrived at a Swiss resort for these negotiations. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has escalated, prompting Iran's decision regarding the vital shipping lane. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, and its closure could have significant economic repercussions.