US and UK take military steps to keep Strait of Hormuz open

The United States has taken military action to prevent Iran from blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane. US forces have reportedly bombed Iranian vessels that were laying mines in the waterway.

In a related move, the United Kingdom has approved the use of its military bases by the US to launch strikes against Iranian anti-ship missile sites that are targeting the strait. The US is also deploying attack aircraft like A-10s and Apaches as part of an intensified campaign to keep the passage open.