"US-Iran Tensions Heighten: Shippers Urged to Avoid Iranian Waters"

Western-backed maritime forces in the Middle East have issued a warning to shippers traveling through the Strait of Hormuz to stay away from Iranian territorial waters to avoid being seized, highlighting the heightened tensions between Iran and the United States. The warning comes after Iran seized two tankers earlier this year near the strait. The U.S. is considering placing armed troops on commercial ships in the region as a deterrent. A European Union-led maritime organization has also warned of a potential attack on a merchant vessel in the strait. The strait is a crucial shipping lane through which 20% of the world's oil passes, and any disruption could impact global energy markets.