U.S.-Iran Conflict: Shipping Crisis Deepens Amid Rising Proxy Strikes

The maritime standoff in the Strait of Hormuz has entered its third week, resulting in severe global economic disruptions and a humanitarian crisis for thousands of stranded merchant sailors. Iranian-linked forces have adopted a 'war of attrition' strategy, seeking to leverage energy market volatility and shipping delays to pressure the United States and its allies. In response, the U.S. is coordinating with Oman and seeking naval contributions from the UK, France, Japan, and South Korea to reopen the vital waterway. On the military front, Iranian-backed militias in Iraq intensified strikes against U.S. interests, targeting Victory Base near Baghdad International Airport with a mix of missiles and drones. The attack resulted in fires and injuries to airport personnel. Concurrently, Hezbollah launched a significant rocket barrage from Lebanon into Israel. In Tehran, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's readiness for a prolonged defense, while President Trump maintained that Iran is facing imminent military and economic defeat despite domestic political pressure over rising fuel costs. Diplomatic maneuvers continue as Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif traveled to Saudi Arabia to facilitate potential mediation. Domestically, the U.S. has withdrawn non-combatant government personnel from Oman due to escalating regional risks. While medical and humanitarian flights are still permitted in the region, drone strikes on oil refineries and expanding clashes in Gulf countries underscore the volatile nature of the theater as the conflict moves into a high-stakes phase of endurance.