Tensions between the US and Iran escalated significantly from mid-February, marked by an intensifying US military buildup in the Middle East as both nations prepared for potential conflict, prompting Russia to warn the US against further strikes on February 19. By March 5, US-Israeli strikes continued across Iran, with Iran reportedly striking Azerbaijan and a US oil tanker, though the US reported on March 6 that Iranian missile attacks were down 90% after B-2 bomber strikes. The conflict intensified by March 19 when Iran retaliated by striking Qatar's Ras Laffan gas complex, causing global market jitters and prompting US President Trump to consider deploying thousands of American troops to the Middle East. On April 2, Trump claimed victory was nearing and threatened further escalation, to which Iran responded by threatening 'more crushing' actions, vowing to continue fighting, and reportedly firing missiles at Israel and Gulf neighbors. By April 16, reports examined the legality of Iran potentially imposing tolls on vessels in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, and US Navy maneuvers and strong rhetoric further escalated tensions on April 17.

The Strait of Hormuz has become a central flashpoint, with the US Navy intercepting three Iranian tankers on April 23, prompting Iran to threaten closure of the Strait and subsequently seize two more ships, 'Epaminondas' and 'MSC Francesca'. In response, the UK and France lead a 30-nation military effort to secure the Strait, and on April 24, President Trump ordered the US Navy to "shoot and kill" any Iranian boats found laying mines. Diplomatic efforts face challenges as of April 25, with Iran rejecting direct talks with US envoys in Islamabad despite both sides being present, and Germany deploying naval units to the Mediterranean for a potential security role in the Strait. On April 26, US-Iran truce talks in Pakistan collapsed after the American delegation failed to arrive.

Currently, the US is rationing advanced weapons due to the Iran war, impacting allies, and Iran's Foreign Minister is consulting with Russian counterparts. On April 28, Iran proposes reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but President Trump rejects its latest peace proposal. Russian President Putin confirms receiving a message from Iran's new leader and pledges support, while oil prices climb above $110 per barrel as peace talks stall. As of April 29, President Trump has rejected an Iran peace proposal and ordered preparations for an extended blockade. The Panama Canal is seeing a surge in traffic, attributed to the US-Iran conflict, and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz has almost completely halted, leading the UN to urge its reopening.