Iran brands US ship seizure piracy as Hormuz tensions escalate

Iran called the US seizure of an Iranian-flag vessel “piracy” and retaliated by seizing two foreign ships, while Washington says it is enforcing sanctions and a blockade around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz. Legal experts note piracy typically involves private actors for private gain, suggesting the actions fall under state enforcement, highlighting the complicated legal gray area in a high-stakes maritime standoff.