Competing Claims Over Alleged Missile Strike Add to US-Iran Tensions in Strait of Hormuz

Conflicting reports regarding a purported missile strike on a U.S. vessel near the Strait of Hormuz have escalated tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Iran claims the attack enforces maritime security rules, while the U.S. denies the incident and continues its naval blockade. This uncertainty has impacted global markets, leading to rising oil prices and falling equities.