Live Updates: U.S. and Iran Edge Toward War Again

President Donald Trump announced that the United States is reinstating a blockade on shipping to and from Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. This decision follows a series of escalatory exchanges and attacks between the two nations. Trump stated that the U.S. would act as "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and would charge ships a toll of 20% on all cargo for safe passage through this critical waterway. He emphasized that this measure is necessary for maintaining security in the region, which has become increasingly volatile. The situation has escalated following recent attacks attributed to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which claimed responsibility for striking two vessels, resulting in one death and several injuries. Trump expressed frustration over Iran's actions, noting that the U.S. was close to reaching a deal with Iran before these attacks occurred. He indicated that the U.S. had already hit Iran "very hard" in response to these provocations. In addition to the blockade, Trump threatened to escalate military actions by targeting Iranian bridges and power plants if Iran does not return to negotiations. The U.S. has conducted strikes against Iranian targets, while Iran has threatened to block additional trade routes in response to U.S. actions. The ongoing tensions pose a significant threat to any potential negotiations aimed at de-escalating the conflict between the two nations.