U.S.-Iran clash tests plan to open Strait of Hormuz shipping lane

The U.S. is pushing a plan to guide ships through the Strait of Hormuz as part of a broader effort to open the vital shipping lane, while Iran fires missiles at Navy ships and drones at commercial vessels after the operation begins. The U.S. says six IRGC boats were destroyed and two U.S.-flagged ships crossed under a defensive umbrella, though Iran denies passage and threatens to stop non-coordinated vessels. Iran also attacked targets in the UAE. Washington is seeking a UN Security Council mandate to de-mine the strait and create a safe lane, signaling a high-stakes mix of military action and diplomacy.