Tensions rise in Strait of Hormuz as US escorts tankers and Iran insists on conditions

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have intensified following a major U.S. operation to escort crude oil tankers through the strategic waterway under the cover of night. Utilizing air, maritime, and space assets, Washington executed its largest petroleum transport mission since the conflict began six months ago.

Iranian forces responded by deploying rocket-launched sea mines, prompting U.S. strikes against targets on Larak Island. Tehran reiterated that the waterway will remain restricted until Washington fulfills its demands, including lifting petroleum sanctions, ending port blockades, releasing frozen assets, and ceasing military operations across all fronts. Prior to the conflict, approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait daily.

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