After Successful Talks Between US and Pakistan, President Trump Announced Extension In Ceasefire. However, Hours Later, Iran Has Seized 2 Cargo Ships Near The Strait of Hormuz
According to The New York Times, it is being reported that Iran has seized two cargo ships near the Strait of Hormuz. In addition this, it is also being reported that according to U.K. Maritime Trade Operations, a shipping monitor run by the British Navy caught Iran attacking two cargo ships near the Strait of Hormuz.
One of them were fired upon by a gunboat belonging to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Despite the continuous efforts by Pakistan to resume talks between the two conflicting sides, both Iran and the US are adamant on extending their hold and influence on the Strait of Hormuz.
It is worth noting that before the conflict in the Middle East, the Strait of Hormuz was part of international waters which handled approximately 20% of global daily oil consumption.
Now, Iran wants the strategic chokepoint to be part of its influence and direct control, to which the US continuously disagrees alongside with Iran’s right to arming itself with nuclear weapons, to which both Israel and the US oppose, making Iran a bitter enemy to both of the nations.
It is also worth noting that the Gulf States have become increasingly frustrated and disillusioned with the US in the aftermath of the constant attacks by Iran on their territories. As a result, both Qatar and Saudi Arabia have agreed to signing strategic and military partnerships and alliances which is a timely shift away from the US. Read article on that news piece here.
