Naval standoff in Hormuz Strait

Two guided-missile destroyers, the USS Frank Petersen Jr. and USS Spruance, entered the strategic waterway on Saturday to begin de-mining operations.

This unilateral move by the U.S. military has triggered a tense radio standoff with Iranian forces, who deny that any warships have successfully transited.

The operation coincides with high-level peace talks in Pakistan, where control of the strait remains a central point of contention.

Analysts warn that any tactical error in the narrow corridor could derail the fragile ceasefire and lead to a renewed escalation of hostilities.