Iran warns Strait of Hormuz is an ‘unbreakable red line’ as US expands strikes

Key Points:

• The US has launched renewed airstrikes against Iran targeting military capabilities, with the White House downplaying potential oil price spikes despite tensions escalating after a ceasefire collapsed.
• Iran accuses the US of war crimes for striking civilian infrastructure, while defending its own attacks on neighboring Gulf states as self-defense, amid ongoing tit-for-tat military actions and threats from both sides.
• Diplomatic efforts have stalled after a fragile ceasefire agreement unraveled, raising concerns of a prolonged conflict, with regional actors like Pakistan calling for restraint and renewed dialogue.
• The conflict has severely disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route, with India banning deployment of its seafarers to the area due to safety concerns following recent attacks.
• US President Trump is considering expanding military operations, including a potential seizure of Kharg Island, a vital Iranian oil export hub, while global oil stocks decline, raising fears of a major supply shock.