Strait of Hormuz Tensions Explode as Ships Seized and Gunboats Open Fire

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have sharply escalated after multiple ships were attacked and at least two vessels seized, despite a ceasefire extension announced by Donald Trump.

Iranian forces reportedly seized two container ships, claiming they had violated maritime regulations and tampered with navigation systems.

At the same time, maritime authorities confirmed that several vessels came under fire in separate incidents, including one ship that was struck by gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades after being approached by an Iranian Revolutionary Guard gunboat.

Despite the attacks, all crew members on the targeted vessels were reported safe, though at least one ship sustained significant damage to its bridge.

The incidents come just hours after the United States extended a fragile ceasefire with Iran, while maintaining a naval blockade in the region—something Tehran views as a violation of the agreement.

Iran has defended its actions as enforcement of security in the waterway, while accusing the US of continuing “hostile” measures through the blockade.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, previously handling around a fifth of global oil and gas flows, making the latest escalation a major concern for global energy markets.

With diplomatic talks stalled and military activity continuing on both sides, fears are growing that the situation could spiral further, threatening global trade and energy supplies.