The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, has once again become the center of international tension. In this latest update, US President Trump is pressuring oil-dependent nations to deploy naval forces and patrol the strategic strait, raising questions about allied commitments and global security. Despite Trump’s heavy appeals, countries like Japan and Australia have firmly declined immediate military engagement. The stakes are high as global energy markets react to the uncertainty, with oil prices surging amid mounting tension. While the US stresses the strait’s importance to allies, it notes its own lower dependency on Hormuz oil flows. China remains a major player with strong self-interest in securing energy supply routes, though its participation in any international coalition remains unclear. WATCH

India is negotiating with Iran to ensure safe passage for Indian-flagged and India-bound vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions in the Gulf disrupt global shipping routes. According to sources, Tehran has asked New Delhi to release three tankers seized by Indian authorities earlier this year as part of a potential arrangement to allow safe transit for Indian vessels. India had detained the Iran-linked tankers in February, alleging that the ships had concealed their identities and were involved in illegal ship-to-ship transfers at sea.