Hormuz Blockade Hits Global Shipping

The first full day of the U.S. blockade has seen at least six merchant ships turned back by American warships positioned in the Gulf of Oman.

While U.S. Central Command claims the blockade is effective, ship-tracking data indicates that some Iran-linked tankers are still attempting to test the maritime net.

The closure of this vital global chokepoint is already rippling through the world economy, with analysts forecasting a 'systemic' shortage of jet fuel and agricultural inputs.

Britain and France are reportedly planning a joint summit to discuss restoring freedom of navigation, as the economic game of chicken between Washington and Tehran enters a dangerous new phase.