Top Stories • April 23, 2026

President Trump has ordered U.S. naval forces to escalate operations in the Strait of Hormuz, authorizing aggressive action against Iranian boats following reports of mine-laying and threats to commercial shipping. The U.S. military presence in the region is expanding as disruptions to global oil routes continue and tensions rise over direct confrontation risks. In Washington, ceasefire extension talks are underway at the ambassador level, though Secretary of State Marco Rubio is not participating as negotiations shift away from senior leadership. President Trump also said Iran’s leadership is “divided and unstable,” while asserting that the U.S. maintains operational control over the Strait of Hormuz unless a deal is reached.

Daniel Compatangelo reports.