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

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to the global trading system, signaling a 25&#37 tariff on any country that continues commercial ties with Iran. The threat, described by Trump as “final,” has sent ripples through international markets despite the absence of a formal executive order or legal framework. Washington has indicated that trade penalties could be imposed immediately on nations doing business with Tehran, even as questions mount over how such a policy would be enforced. Analysts note that the economic burden of the proposed tariffs would largely fall on U.S. importers, given Iran’s long-standing status under international sanctions. WATCH