US-IRAN CONFLICT ESCALATES AS HORMUZ CLOSES US forces struck Iran for the third time in a week after Tehran attacked a Cyprus-flagged container ship. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks targeting US-linked sites across the Middle East. Minor damage and several injuries were reported, with no confirmed deaths. Tehran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed “until further notice,” escalating tensions and threatening global energy supplies. Despite intensifying attacks, both sides say diplomatic talks remain possible.(*Walter Bloomberg)