US and Iran Launch Fresh Strikes, Escalating Conflict; UN Halts Shipping Escorts in Strait of Hormuz After Vessel Attack

The conflict between the United States and Iran has escalated with both nations launching fresh strikes, marking the worst escalation since their interim peace deal. A commercial vessel was reportedly struck in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) to pause its operations to escort hundreds of stranded ships out of the Persian Gulf due to safety concerns. Iran had previously warned vessels against using unapproved routes.