Iranian Revolutionary Guard attacks ships in Strait of Hormuz amid US blockade tensions

On Wednesday, Iranian forces targeted three vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, with state television reporting that the Revolutionary Guard attacked two ships and took them into custody. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre confirmed that a container ship was struck in the morning, followed by a second vessel shortly thereafter. This area is vital, as it facilitates the passage of 20% of the world's oil and natural gas during peacetime. President Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran while upholding a blockade on Iranian ports, citing the interception of what he called a “gift from China.” Meanwhile, Iran's Tasnim News Agency claimed no request for a ceasefire extension had been made and threatened to confront the US blockade. An Iranian diplomat noted that discussions would not resume until the blockade was lifted, although Iran has not officially recognized Trump's extension. These assaults further complicate the prospects for US-Iran negotiations and heighten risks for maritime traffic in the strait.