Two Ships Sink Near Strait of Hormuz Amid Surge in Attacks, Raising Global Trade Concerns

A container ship and a dry bulk carrier have sunk near the Strait of Hormuz in separate incidents after being hit by projectiles, according to maritime officials. These sinkings are part of a surge in attacks over the past 10 days, which Iran attributes to its response to US port blockades and sanctions. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade, and the escalating attacks heighten concerns about security in the waterway and its impact on international commerce.