US insists Strait of Hormuz is open as it exchanges strikes with Iran

The United States insists the Strait of Hormuz remains open, directly contradicting Iran's declaration that the vital waterway is closed until further notice. This exchange highlights a significant escalation in hostilities between the two nations.

The conflict intensified this week, with the US launching strikes against more than 140 targets across Iran. These actions were a direct response to Iran's forces targeting a ship traversing the strait, which Iran claimed was using an unauthorized route. Iran has been actively attempting to assert control over this critical maritime passage.

Adding to the escalation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) initiated broad attacks on Sunday, targeting US bases and allied positions throughout the region. Reports indicate strikes on a US base in Jordan, while the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain confirmed responding to Iranian missiles and drones.

This series of events underscores the volatile situation in the region, with both nations engaging in direct military actions and counteractions, raising concerns about broader regional stability.