As the United States and Iran tread a bumpy road toward a potential deal to end hostilities, both sides have traded fire over the Strait of Hormuz in recent days, turning the strategic waterway into a tinderbox.
The recent tensions over the strait have exposed the deep divisions between the United States and Iran, further heightening uncertainty over their fragile ceasefire. Experts suggest that the escalation may be a calculated strategy by both sides to strengthen their positions at the negotiating table. Yet the rising confrontations are increasing the risk of renewed conflict, further clouding the prospects for peace in the Middle East.
