Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps seized two cargo vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, a choke point that channels roughly 20% of global oil. Both ships exchanged fire before falling under Iranian control, according to maritime officials. The move comes as the U.S. maintains a blockade of Iranian ports, tightening pressure on Gulf shipping.

The seizure follows a U.S.‑led blockade that has already stalled most traffic through the strait, straining global energy supplies. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said the incidents did not violate the recent truce extended by President Trump, noting the vessels were not U.S. or Israeli flagged.

Iranian officials claim the action demonstrates their resolve to control the strategic waterway, even amid a cease‑fire still in effect. Analysts warn that halting cargo flow could push oil prices higher, while average Iranians face potential economic fallout as the standoff drags on.

With the Strait of Hormuz accounting for about one‑fifth of world oil transit, any disruption reverberates across global markets. The incident underscores the fragility of supply chains in the region and signals that geopolitical tensions can quickly translate into tangible risks for investors and shipping operators alike.