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Iran's Revolutionary Guard seized two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, intensifying pressure on one of the world's most critical shipping routes as a fragile ceasefire between Tehran and Washington showed signs of strain.
Iranian authorities said the ships were detained over alleged maritime violations and escorted toward Iranian waters. The move marked the first such seizures in weeks and came amid reports that at least three commercial vessels had been fired upon in the same ships.
The developments followed U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to extend a ceasefire indefinitely, a move he said would give Iran time to present a "unified proposal" for peace negotiations. Despite the extension, Trump confirmed that U.S. naval forces would continue enforcing a blockade targeting Iran's oil exports.
Tehran has condemned the blockade as an act of war and signaled it would not reopen the strategic waterway under current conditions. The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which roughly a fifth of global energy supplies typically flow, has remained largely restricted throughout the period.
On the ground in Tehran, uncertainty lingered. While daily life continued, many residents expressed concern that fighting could resume without warning. Businesses reported reduced activity, reflecting broader economic strain after weeks of conflict and sanctions pressure.
Meanwhile, Pakistan, acting as a key intermediary, continued efforts to revive negotiations after a planned round of talks failed to materialize. Officials familiar with the process described the setback as unexpected but said diplomatic channels remain open.
In a show of military capacity, Iranian forces displayed ballistic missile systems during a public event in the capital, showing Iran's readiness to respond if tensions escalate further.
With both sides holding firm on core demands, including the blockade, control of the waterway, and nuclear issues, prospects for a lasting agreement remain uncertain, even as the ceasefire technically holds.
