The ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran intensified sharply after US President Donald Trump ordered American forces to “shoot and kill” Iranian small boats disrupting maritime traffic in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
In a social media post on Thursday, Trump said the US military is ramping up mine-clearing operations in the narrow waterway, a crucial global oil transit route. The directive signals a significant escalation in the US-Iran standoff, raising fresh concerns about the prospects of ending hostilities in the Persian Gulf.
Simultaneously, the US military announced the seizure of another oil tanker, the Majestic X, allegedly linked to Iranian oil smuggling. The vessel was intercepted in the Indian Ocean, between Sri Lanka and Indonesia, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
The seizure follows Iran’s reported attack on three cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz, two of which were captured. The ongoing confrontation has effectively choked a major portion of global oil supply routes, with nearly 20 per cent of the world’s traded oil typically passing through the strait in peacetime.
Markets React as Oil Prices Fluctuate
Global financial markets showed signs of volatility amid the escalating tensions. US stocks edged lower after recent record highs, with the S&P 500 slipping 0.3 per cent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 193 points. The Nasdaq Composite also declined by 0.4 per cent.
Oil markets remained unstable, reflecting uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose modestly by 0.5 per cent to USD 102.43 per barrel, as traders reacted to the evolving geopolitical situation.
Hezbollah Claims Attack on Israeli Positions
Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah claimed responsibility for attacks on Israeli military positions in southern Lebanon. The group said it targeted Israeli soldiers in Taybeh and downed a drone in the Majdal area.
The Israeli military earlier confirmed intercepting an aerial target in the region. Hezbollah stated the attacks were retaliation for alleged Israeli violations of a recently established ceasefire, while Israel has accused the group of breaching the truce.
Trump Points to Leadership Divisions in Iran
President Trump also claimed internal divisions within Iran’s leadership are complicating negotiations.
“Iran is having a very hard time figuring out who their leader is,” Trump said, referring to tensions between hardliners and moderates within the Iranian establishment.
He noted that while some Iranian officials are open to negotiations, recent US actions targeting key leaders have added complexity. Trump recently extended the ceasefire, which began on April 8, to allow Tehran more time to present a unified proposal to end the conflict.
UN Peacekeeping Mission in Lebanon Under Review
The future of the United Nations peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon is under consideration. United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) may be replaced with a smaller contingent, according to UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix.
The mission, active for nearly 50 years, faces funding pressures, and its mandate is set to expire at the end of the year. A proposal for its replacement is expected by June 1.
Naval Blockade Strategy Faces New Challenges
Trump’s reliance on naval blockades – previously used against countries like Venezuela and Cuba – is proving more complex in Iran’s case. Analysts note that Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz gives it significant leverage over global energy supplies.
Experts warn that prolonged disruption could have severe economic consequences worldwide, including rising fuel prices in the US during an election year. Military historian Max Boot highlighted that the situation may ultimately hinge on which side can endure greater pressure.
Casualties Reported in Gaza
In the Gaza Strip, an Israeli drone strike killed three men travelling in a vehicle in central Gaza, according to local health officials. Several others were injured in the attack near the Maghazi camp.
The Israeli military has not issued an immediate response. Although a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has technically held since October, renewed strikes have resulted in hundreds of casualties, according to Gaza health authorities.
(With inputs from Agencies)
US-Israel-Iran war highlights: Trump orders ‘shoot and kill’ action in Hormuz
