The United States has intensified its military and economic pressure on Iran amid ongoing negotiations regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil and gas shipments. On Wednesday, US Central Command Forces shot down four Iranian drones that posed a threat in the area and struck a control center in Bandar Abbas, which was preparing to launch another drone. These actions were characterized as purely defensive by US officials. Simultaneously, the US Treasury announced sanctions against Iran's newly established Persian Gulf Strait Authority, which collects tolls for vessels passing through the strait, with fees potentially reaching $2 million per vessel. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Iran's actions reflect desperation for cash. President Donald Trump, while acknowledging Iran's desire to negotiate, expressed dissatisfaction with their current offers and warned that the US might escalate military operations if a satisfactory deal is not reached. The situation remains tense, with rising energy prices adding pressure on the US administration as it navigates these complex negotiations.