Hormuz at the crossroads: US-Iran rift widens as Lebanon violence flares

Tensions mount as Iran reasserts control of the Strait of Hormuz amid a US blockade, with Trump warning Tehran against blackmail and Iran saying it is considering US proposals but will maintain control of Hormuz until the war ends; UKMTO reports attacks and suspicious activity near Hormuz and CENTCOM says 23 ships have complied with the blockade. In Lebanon, UN peacekeepers were attacked and a French soldier was killed, with Macron blaming Hezbollah, who deny involvement; Israel confirms strikes in southern Lebanon; Iran’s leadership signals readiness amid rising military rhetoric as negotiations continue and markets watch for potential war bets.