US escorts oil shipment through Strait of Hormuz amid Iranian blockade demands

A major US military operation successfully escorted a massive crude oil transport through the Strait of Hormuz, marking the largest shipment since the conflict began six months ago. Supported by naval, aerial, and space assets, the American action coincided with a military strike against Iran's Larak Island.

In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched sea mines along the critical maritime corridor. Tehran reiterated that the strategic waterway "will not be opened" until Washington fulfills conditions outlined in a formal memorandum of understanding. Iranian demands include lifting oil sanctions, ending port blockades, unfreezing national assets, and ceasing military operations on all fronts. Prior to the war, approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil passed through the strait daily.

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