The suspension ends a key commercial lifeline, though analysts said Iran's sanctions-evasion networks and enforcement uncertainty limit how decisive a blow it will be

As bombastic threats and abrupt shifts in positions come to define Trump's rhetoric in the six-month war with Iran, some analysts have likened his approach to the so-called "madman theory" often associated with former President Richard Nixon.

Both missiles failed to cause any damage or casualties, but marked a return to active conflict after more than three months.

Iran has traditionally maintained good relations with Turkey and Pakistan; its cultural bonds with these two countries are strong and go back centuries. More recently, the Islamic Republic has worked to improve its relations with Saudi Arabia, particularly since reestablishing diplomatic ties with Riyadh in 2023.

The former Trump defense secretary says Iran's sweeping demands to reopen the Strait of Hormuz show Tehran believes it has the upper hand.

Speaking in New York on Friday, Trump, with a chuckle, said: "Pretty soon I'll be declaring the Hormuz Strait a territory of the United States." View on euronews

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC on Thursday that Washington will impose the "toughest sanctions in history" against Iran.

Iran and the US remain locked in a prolonged confrontation as Washington intensifies economic pressure and Tehran rejects Trump's threats while making the Strait of Hormuz central to any potential deal.