The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow sea passage next to Iran, and oil tankers sail through it. This week it became dangerous. A group that tracks ships said at least 11 were attacked in and around it in the week ending 6 November. Three sank.
The fighting is part of a war between Iran and the United States and Israel that began on 28 February. On Friday night, two projectiles hit Qeshm island in Iran. President Trump called them “minor strikes”. About 65 percent fewer ships cross the strait than before the war.
Other countries are trying to help the two sides talk. Iran’s foreign minister spoke with 12 foreign ministers in 48 hours, including those of Oman, Qatar and Pakistan. Qatar’s prime minister said the US and Iran should not wait for a “perfect moment” to make a deal.