Strait of Hormuz Attack and Iran-US Peace Talks

A cargo ship near the Strait of Hormuz was attacked by multiple small craft, marking at least two dozen such incidents since the war between Iran and the United States began on February 28. Iran has asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz, demanding tolls from non-United States or Israel-affiliated ships, which has shaken global markets. Meanwhile, Iran has presented a 14-point peace proposal to the United States, aiming to end the war within 30 days and calling for the United States to lift sanctions, end its naval blockade, and cease hostilities, including Israel's operations in Lebanon. United States President Donald Trump is reviewing the proposal but expressed skepticism, stating Iran has not 'paid a big enough price.' The United States has maintained a naval blockade on Iranian ports since April 13, severely impacting Iran's oil revenues and contributing to the rapid weakening of the Iran — Iranian rial and widespread economic instability. The United States has also warned shipping companies against paying tolls to Iran. The situation remains tense, with a fragile ceasefire holding, but further strikes remain a possibility.