US-Iran tensions escalate in Strait of Hormuz

President Trump shifted to a third military strategy in the Iran war, aiming to control the Strait of Hormuz through resumed strikes and blockade reimposition.

The U.S. and Iran are engaged in a coercive war of attrition, with both sides trying to push the other past an unknown pain threshold.

Iran exploited its proximity to the Strait of Hormuz, a major oil export route, to defy Washington and joust for influence across the Middle East.

The war's course will be shaped by Iran's attempts to reconstitute its missile force and air defenses, and by the U.S. ability to strike with declining weapons inventories.

Trump's initial expectation of a decisive victory within four to six weeks has not materialized, as the conflict shows no signs of stable peace.