Iran–US Conflict Deepens: Hormuz Strait Crisis, Oil Surge, Israel–Lebanon Tensions and Global Fallout Intensify
US President Donald Trump has claimed on social media that Iran has asked the United States to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
He further alleged that Iran told Washington it is in a “state of collapse,” and is struggling with its internal leadership situation.
However, there is no independent confirmation of this claim, and Iran continues to operate diplomatically and militarily.
At the same time, there are early signs that some shipping activity may be resuming.
A liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker named Mubaraz, which had loaded fuel from Abu Dhabi National Oil Company’s Das Island facility in the UAE, has reportedly crossed the Strait of Hormuz.
According to ship-tracking data cited in reports, the vessel is now moving past the southern tip of India.
This development suggests that while the Strait remains highly sensitive, it may not be completely blocked.
The White House has said it is currently reviewing a fresh proposal from Iran aimed at reopening the Strait and reducing tensions.
However, Tehran has taken a firm stand, stating that the United States is no longer in a position to dictate its policies to other nations.
Iranian defence ministry spokesperson Reza Talaei-Nik said Washington must abandon what he described as “illegal and irrational demands,” signaling a hardened diplomatic posture.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high across the wider region. Israel has stated that it has no intention of occupying territory in Lebanon, even as it continues military operations along its northern border.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said the presence of Israeli forces is purely for protecting citizens.
Despite these assurances, clashes continue with Hezbollah.
Hezbollah has claimed responsibility for a drone strike targeting an Israeli Merkava tank in southern Lebanon, while Israeli forces reported multiple drone threats and said they destroyed a Hezbollah tunnel.
In Gaza, violence has also continued. Israeli airstrikes reportedly hit a vehicle in Gaza City, killing several people, while other drone strikes caused further casualties.
Aid organisations, including Doctors Without Borders, have accused Israel of systematically damaging water infrastructure in Gaza, worsening humanitarian conditions.
The ongoing conflict has pushed global oil prices sharply higher. Brent crude has crossed $110 per barrel, while the US benchmark WTI is also rising.
This surge reflects growing fears that the Strait of Hormuz could face prolonged disruption. Higher oil prices are already impacting global economies, particularly energy-importing countries.
The aviation sector is among the worst affected. Rising jet fuel prices, now averaging around $179 per barrel, are putting immense pressure on airlines.
Major carriers have warned they may not be able to sustain operations if costs continue to rise.
In India, airlines have urged the government to review fuel pricing policies, as aviation turbine fuel accounts for a large share of their expenses.
Industry experts warn that fuel shortages could first hit Asia before spreading globally.
Diplomatic activity has intensified as countries try to contain the crisis. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has made multiple visits to Pakistan within 48 hours, following talks in Russia, including discussions with President Vladimir Putin.
Flights between Tehran and Moscow have also resumed after a two-month pause, signaling efforts to restore connectivity.
The Gulf Cooperation Council has convened an emergency meeting in Jeddah, chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Leaders from across the Gulf, including Qatar, have emphasised the need for coordination, diplomacy, and regional stability.
Qatar has stated that the Strait of Hormuz should never have been closed and has supported Pakistan’s role in mediating the conflict.
At the global level, Antonio Guterres has called for freedom of navigation in the Strait, warning that prolonged disruption could trigger a global food crisis due to rising transport and fertilizer costs.
UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock has also urged an immediate ceasefire, noting that the conflict is worsening humanitarian crises, especially in Gaza.
Meanwhile, tensions are also playing out beyond the battlefield.
The United Kingdom has summoned Iran’s ambassador over what it called “inflammatory” social media activity linked to the Iranian embassy in London, including reports of a controversial “martyrdom” program.
Cyber tensions are rising as well. Reports suggest Iranian-linked hackers have targeted hundreds of US service members and officials, allegedly releasing sensitive information online.
Economic measures are also being felt within Iran. The country has banned steel exports following damage to its industrial facilities from airstrikes. Rising prices of medicines and essential goods are adding to domestic pressure.
In a major development affecting global energy markets, the United Arab Emirates has announced it will leave OPEC and OPEC+, citing national interests and the need for flexibility amid geopolitical instability.
This move could weaken coordination among major oil producers at a critical time.
On the ground, Iran has partially reopened its airspace, with several airports resuming operations and flights gradually increasing.
However, Iranian officials have made it clear that they still consider the situation a war and remain on high alert.
Across the region, the human cost continues to rise. Lebanon reports thousands killed and wounded since the escalation began, while attacks in Gaza and southern Lebanon continue despite calls for a ceasefire.
Overall, the situation remains highly volatile.
With military conflict ongoing, diplomatic efforts intensifying, economic pressures mounting, and global supply chains under strain, the crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz is now affecting not just the Middle East but the entire world.
