Iran launched attacks on three vessels in the Strait of Hormuz Wednesday, escalating maritime assaults in a key global energy chokepoint. The paramilitary Revolutionary Guard reportedly seized two ships, bringing them to Iran. This action intensified efforts to disrupt talks aimed at ending the wider conflict.
The attacks occurred just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire with Iran. Despite the extension, the U.S. maintained its blockade of Iranian ports, signaling continued disruption to traffic through the strait, which handles 20% of the world's oil and natural gas.
Earlier incidents included fire opened on a container ship, with a second vessel attacked shortly after. Iranian state television confirmed the Revolutionary Guard had taken custody of these ships. A third vessel was reported to have become stranded off the Iranian coast.
These maritime incidents come amid broader conflict, with over 30 attacks on ships in the Middle East reported since late February. The Strait of Hormuz's strategic importance means its closure significantly impacts global energy supplies, with Brent crude oil prices spiking significantly.
Despite the ceasefire halting airstrikes, the maritime threat persists. Iran's Revolutionary Guard vowed to retaliate against "remaining assets in the region." Diplomatic efforts for renewed talks remain uncertain, with Iran signaling preconditions for engagement.