Iran fights to keep grip on Hormuz as US, Gulf allies carve new shipping route

Iran is attacking commercial shipping through a new southern corridor near Oman, which the U.S. and Gulf allies are promoting to reduce Iranian influence over the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. responded with strikes on Iranian military targets, but both sides agreed to a ceasefire and negotiations in Doha, though Iran denies confirming talks. Iran's strategy aims to make the corridor commercially unworkable by raising insurance costs and testing U.S. resolve.