Tensions in the Middle East have reached a dangerous new level as the United States issues a war-like warning after Iran’s back-to-back seizure of oil tankers near the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command has accused Iran of violating international law after Iranian forces—using a helicopter—boarded and diverted the Marshall Islands–flagged M/V Talara to Iranian shores. Washington warns that any miscalculation by Tehran in international waters will be met with “absolute force,” raising fears of a potential military confrontation. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard says the seizure was backed by a court order concerning allegedly illegal cargo, while Iranian sources claim the ship carried 30,000 tons of petrochemicals moved without authorization. With Iran increasing maritime patrols and the U.S. doubling down on military posture, global shipping lanes face their most serious threat in years.
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