US-Iran Blockade Standoff Continues with Ceasefire Extension, Naval Leadership Change

Secretary John Phelan departed his position effective immediately on Wednesday, according to a Pentagon spokesman who expressed gratitude for his service without providing a reason. The changes occur amid the ongoing US naval operations in the region.

The Pentagon briefed lawmakers that clearing Iranian mines from the Strait of Hormuz could take up to six months after the war ends, according to sources familiar with the matter. A Defense Department official noted that removal is unlikely until the conflict concludes, highlighting potential long-term economic impacts.

A Pentagon spokesman described a six-month closure as unacceptable.

Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US of hypocritical rhetoric, stating on X that breaches of commitments, blockades, and threats obstruct genuine negotiations. Iran has welcomed dialogue but insists on lifting the blockade. The US Senate rejected a resolution to require congressional approval for further attacks on Iran, voting 46-51, marking the fifth such failure this year.

In related developments, the US is hosting a second round of talks between Israel and Lebanon today to extend a fragile truce. An Israeli strike in southern Lebanon killed Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil and wounded photographer Zeinab Faraj on Wednesday, according to Lebanese authorities and her employer.

Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam described the targeting of journalists as a war crime. >"The Islamic Republic of Iran has welcomed dialogue and agreement and continues to do so. " — Masoud Pezeshkian, Iranian president, on X (The Independent).

Oil prices surged following the incidents, with West Texas Intermediate rising 4.06 percent to $96.73 a barrel and Brent crude climbing 3.62 percent to $105.63. The conflict has increased gas prices globally, with European Union energy commissioner Dan Jørgensen estimating daily costs to Europe at around 500 million euros.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan told his German counterpart that the US-Israeli war against Iran is weakening Europe and urged a peace-focused approach. United Airlines raised fares by 15-20 percent and cut its 2026 flying capacity by 5 percent to offset surging fuel costs.

In Tehran, residents remain tense despite the ceasefire extension, with quieter streets and some leaving the city amid fears of renewed conflict. A local shop owner described the situation as limbo, questioning what prevents further war. The war began on February 28 with a US-Israeli attack on Iran, leading to over 30 ship attacks in the region.

Israeli strikes in the West Bank killed two Palestinians, including a 14-year-old, on Thursday. The US accused Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy of acting like pirates after the ship seizures.