US and Iran exchange strikes in Strait of Hormuz as Tehran sets terms

Military confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz has intensified following a large-scale United States operation to escort millions of barrels of crude oil through the waterway. According to reports, Washington deployed air, maritime, and space assets in its largest transit mission since the conflict began six months ago.

In response, Iranian forces launched sea mines using rockets, prompting retaliatory US airstrikes against targets on Larak Island. Tehran subsequently announced that the strategic shipping lane "will not be opened" until Washington complies with conditions detailed in a memorandum of understanding. These demands include lifting port blockades and energy sanctions, unfreezing Iranian assets, and halting all military operations in the region.

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