US and Iran escalate conflict in Strait of Hormuz over oil transit and maritime control

The United States has conducted its largest crude oil transport operation through the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began six months ago, employing naval, aerial, and space assets. The movement coincided with a US strike on Iran's Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines across the maritime corridor.

Tehran declared that the waterway "will not be opened" until Washington fulfills a memorandum of understanding requiring the lifting of oil sanctions, unfreezing of assets, termination of port blockades, and cessation of military operations. Prior to the hostilities, approximately 20 million barrels of crude passed through the strategic passage daily.

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