US-Iran War Live Updates: Tensions in the Gulf have escalated once more following an attack on a merchant vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, leading the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to temporarily halt its ship evacuation program and casting new doubts on the sustainability of the initial ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran.
Two US officials informed Reuters that Iran was responsible for firing on the vessel, while a security source indicated it was likely attacked by a drone. Tehran has yet to respond.
This incident occurred shortly after Iran issued a warning that vessels must adhere to shipping routes designated by Tehran to navigate the Strait of Hormuz, stating that unauthorized routes would not ensure safe passage. The IMO announced it had paused its evacuation initiative to reconfirm safety assurances for ships awaiting transit through the critical waterway.
The reported assault caused benchmark oil prices to rise by approximately 2%, reigniting concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, which previously handled around 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies prior to the conflict.
The situation has also introduced fresh uncertainty into negotiations between Washington and Tehran, with critical issues such as sanctions, Iran’s nuclear program, and control of the waterway remaining unresolved.
Stay updated with CNBC-TV18’s live blog for the latest news on US-Iran negotiations, the Strait of Hormuz, and tensions between Israel and Lebanon.
