Iranian forces fired on multiple commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz after Tehran reversed a decision to reopen the strategic waterway, escalating tensions with the United States. The move came after Washington said its blockade of Iranian ports would remain in place until a broader agreement is reached, including over Iran’s nuclear programme. President Donald Trump warned Iran against attempting to 'blackmail' the United States and said talks between the two sides were continuing.

Gunboats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reportedly opened fire on cargo ships near Oman, with two Indian vessels struck but no injuries reported. A third commercial ship was also attacked, and a cruise ship captain reported a nearby splash off the Omani coast. The incidents have raised fresh concerns about the security of one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.

The renewed closure threatens to deepen global energy market instability just as oil prices had begun to ease on hopes of a diplomatic breakthrough. The United Kingdom and other international leaders urged Iran to allow shipping to resume, warning that disruption in the strait would harm economies worldwide. Meanwhile, a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon showed signs of strain after a deadly attack on a United Nations peacekeeping patrol.