Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Amid US Nuclear Talks
Analysis based on 76 articles · First reported Feb 17, 2026 · Last updated Feb 18, 2026
The temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran for military drills, coupled with ongoing nuclear talks with the United States, has created volatility in global oil markets. While initial tensions caused oil prices to rise, progress in talks led to a decline in Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate prices, reflecting hopes for de-escalation and stable supply.
Iran announced the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz for live-fire military drills while simultaneously holding indirect nuclear talks with the United States in Geneva. This marks the first time Iran has announced such a closure since the U.S. began increasing its military presence in the region. Iranian state media reported that missiles were fired towards the Strait, a critical international waterway for oil transit. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened force to constrain Iran's nuclear program, while Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei issued warnings against U.S. military buildup. The U.S. has deployed the United States===USS Gerald R. Ford and other warships to the Middle East, joining the United States===USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) already in the region. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are leading the U.S. delegation, and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is leading Iran's. Oman is mediating the talks, and Rafael Grossi of the International===International Atomic Energy Agency is providing technical advice. Oil prices, including Brent Crude and West Texas Intermediate, initially rose due to tensions but fell after the talks concluded, indicating market optimism for a deal.
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