What’s Next for the Strait of Hormuz? Tensions Rise Amid US-Iran Conflict

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are escalating as the US and Iran engage in a high-stakes conflict that has significant implications for global markets and oil prices. The Pope has responded to President Trump's criticisms, while military operations continue in Lebanon. With failed negotiations in Pakistan and warnings from Iranian officials, the situation remains precarious. Maritime experts are concerned about the potential for conflict in the strait, and the EU faces rising fuel costs due to the ongoing war. As the world watches closely, the future of this vital waterway hangs in the balance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 13, 2026, 19:17 IST

Pope Responds to Trump Amid Escalating Tensions

In Cairo, the Pope addressed President Donald Trump's recent criticisms regarding the US-Israel conflict in Iran. He emphasized that the Vatican's calls for peace are deeply rooted in the Gospel and expressed that he does not fear the Trump administration's stance.

As tensions escalated, an intelligence firm reported that traffic through the Strait of Hormuz had significantly decreased, coinciding with a rise in oil prices following Trump's announcement of a blockade on the waterway.

The US Central Command clarified that the blockade would apply to all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports while still permitting ships traveling between non-Iranian ports to pass through the strait, a modification from Trump's earlier threats.

In a social media post, Trump confirmed the details of the CENTCOM statement.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard asserted that the strait remains under their complete control and is accessible to non-military vessels, but warned that military ships would face a strong response, according to reports from two semi-official Iranian news outlets.

These developments followed extensive US-Iran ceasefire discussions in Pakistan that ended without a resolution, heightening the potential for conflict. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf warned Trump, stating, "If you fight, we will fight."

The ongoing conflict, now in its seventh week, has resulted in significant casualties and has disrupted global markets.

Latest Updates on the Conflict

Netanyahu Confirms Ongoing Operations in Lebanon

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that military operations are still active in Lebanon, particularly around the Bint Jbeil region, a historically significant battleground between Israel and Hezbollah.

During a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu indicated that Israel's military is expanding its control beyond the five hilltops it has held since the 2024 ceasefire with Hezbollah, aiming to establish a more secure zone to mitigate invasion risks and terrorism threats.

Netanyahu previously stated that Israel aims to secure territory 8-10 kilometers (5-6 miles) from the Lebanese border to eliminate threats from short-range rockets and anti-tank missiles targeting Israeli communities.

Iran and Qatar Discuss Failed Talks

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held a phone conversation with Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani to discuss the unsuccessful negotiations in Islamabad between Iran and the US.

Quds Force Chief Predicts US Failure in the Middle East

Brig Gen Esmail Qaani, commander of Iran's Quds Force, stated that the US will exit the Middle East without any accomplishments, drawing parallels to their previous failures in Yemen, as reported by Iranian media.

He suggested that Iranian-backed Houthi rebels could once again threaten the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, recalling past US military responses to such actions.

EU Faces Rising Fuel Costs Due to Conflict

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen revealed that the EU's fuel expenses have surged by over USD 25 billion since the onset of the US-Israel conflict with Iran, with expectations of further increases.

She urged EU nations to coordinate their oil and gas usage to alleviate market pressures and proposed relaxing state aid rules to protect consumers from soaring energy prices.

Iranian Official Dismisses US Blockade Threat

Ebrahim Rezaei, a spokesperson for Iran's National Security Commission, characterized the US threat to block the Strait of Hormuz as largely bluster, asserting that Tehran is ready to respond to any military escalation.

Netanyahu and Vance Discuss Islamabad Negotiations

Netanyahu revealed that he spoke with US Vice President JD Vance regarding the recent negotiations in Pakistan, expressing Israel's support for Trump's firm approach towards Iran, particularly concerning nuclear material enrichment.

Maritime Expert Analyzes Potential Conflict

Sal Mercogliano, a maritime historian, indicated that the upcoming days will test the established rules governing the Strait of Hormuz, questioning how the US would manage vessels moving through the strait amidst rising tensions.

Russia Warns of Market Impact from US Actions

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov commented on the US blockade announcement, predicting negative repercussions for international markets, while noting that many details remain unclear.

Iran and Saudi Arabia Discuss Islamabad Talks

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan about the failed US-Iran negotiations in Pakistan.

Turkey Suggests Possible Ceasefire Extension

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan proposed that the US-Iran ceasefire could be extended for an additional 45 to 60 days to facilitate ongoing negotiations, while cautioning that Israel's involvement could complicate matters.