Iran demands end to US sanctions as tensions rise in Strait of Hormuz

Tensions in the Middle East have intensified following a major US military operation to escort millions of barrels of crude oil through the Strait of Hormuz and target assets on Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched naval mines into the passage. Tehran declared that the strategic waterway will remain closed until Washington lifts oil sanctions, ends port blockades, unfreezes Iranian assets, and ceases all military operations. Maritime traffic through the strait remains far below pre-conflict levels of 20 million barrels per day, raising concerns of further escalation as operational windows close for both nations.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)