Iran and US Clash Over Hormuz Control Despite Announced Pause in Fighting

A fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran has coincided with escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has moved to tighten control over one of the world’s most critical maritime routes. Even as negotiations on a longer-term settlement are expected to continue, shipping through the narrow waterway has remained heavily restricted, with Iranian naval forces warning vessels against attempting passage without authorization. According to reports, Tehran and Washington agreed to a two-week pause in hostilities shortly before a US deadline for Iran to reopen the strait expired....