Overview
- Iran said Thursday it deposited its first Strait of Hormuz toll revenues as the Revolutionary Guard seized two cargo ships, identified as MSC Francesca and Epaminondas, and fired on a third vessel while vowing the waterway stays closed under the U.S. blockade.
- U.S. Central Command disclosed late Wednesday it had ordered 31 ships to turn around or return to port under the naval blockade that President Trump kept in place after extending a ceasefire with Iran indefinitely.
- U.S. defense officials told lawmakers mine removal in the strait could take up to six months, a timeline that suggests shippers, insurers, and energy buyers face prolonged disruption even if fighting remains paused.
- Plans for Pakistan-hosted talks remain uncertain as Trump said discussions could resume within days, Iran has not confirmed participation, and Vice President JD Vance put travel to Islamabad on hold.
- Oil held above $100 a barrel as halted or diverted traffic through a channel that normally carries roughly one-fifth of seaborne oil forced carriers to rethink routes, airlines to cancel some flights, and crews to navigate higher risks despite reports that recent shipboard personnel remained safe.