US and Iran tensions rise over Strait of Hormuz and nuclear program

In early September 2026, tensions between the US and Iran escalated over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's nuclear program. US officials denied Iran's claim of striking an uncrewed US military ship in the strait, while Iran announced plans to declare a 'no-go zone' near the waterway. Meanwhile, US Energy Secretary suggested that a nuclear deal with Iran may not be reached, but that the country's ability to build a bomb could still be destroyed. President Trump shared a map depicting the Strait of Hormuz as US territory, and his administration's blockade policies are seen as pushing Iran toward military escalation. The US is also calling on allies to contribute more to securing the strait.