Tehran avoiding outright conflict with powerful US forces, but strategy of prodding Western interests could lead to armed conflict with global consequences

Lebanese terror group commanders say forces being sent to south for possible conflict, as pressure on Tehran grows

Tehran appears to speak in two voices while explaining confiscation of British-flagged ship, as European powers urge the country to reverse its 'dangerous' course

Tensions have risen sharply in recent months with a string of incidents involving tankers and drones

Officials assert they are operating according to law to investigate accident in Strait of Hormuz, as London seethes over vessel's confiscation

Washing and Tehran continue to argue over Gulf incident as US official insists there is 'clear evidence' American forces brought down Iranian aircraft

Officials claim ship failed to 'respect maritime rules,' hours after Gibraltar court rules seized Iranian tanker can be held for 30 more days; UK says 'urgently seeking info'

Revolutionary Guard doubles down on denial that its aircraft was shot down in Strait of Hormuz while approaching an American vessel

Announcement on state TV says vessel intercepted by Revolutionary Guard forces in Strait of Hormuz was smuggling Iranian fuel to foreign customers

Pentagon officials suspect Tehran targeted vessel amid heightened tensions over unraveling nuclear deal