The US military on Saturday denied Iran's claims that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, saying the critical waterway remained open and that US forces were monitoring the situation to ensure that it continued.

According to the statement, the Iranian armed forces "have taken the necessary measures to ensure the safe passage of merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz"

Iran's military warns of Strait of Hormuz closure due to U.S. and Israel ceasefire violations, threatening further action.

The US military said Saturday it remained "present and vigilant" in the Strait of Hormuz, shortly after Iran announced it was closing the critical shipping lane. "US forces remain…