Fragile ceasefire holds between US and Iran in Strait of Hormuz

A fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran continues to hold, but the Strait of Hormuz remains under intense scrutiny. The waterway, one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes, has been a key bargaining chip for Iran in the conflict. The BBC is the first international broadcaster to report from the Strait itself, travelling to the southern Iranian port of Bandar Abbas.

From a fisherman's boat off the coast of Iran, the crew observed an international ship that has been captured by Iranian forces. Many other vessels are waiting to get through. In peacetime, around a fifth of the world's traded oil and gas passes through these waters. When ships are held, prices for fuel and fertiliser rise globally.

Bandar Abbas sits close to the narrowest point of the Strait. It is home to the conventional navy and the naval arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The city has sustained heavy attacks and has been a key target for US strikes. In a busy university neighbourhood, a residential building was hit. The people inside included military personnel and civilians, including children. They were all asleep at the time. Locals said it was not a military base.

With the fragile ceasefire in place, people have returned to the city's bustling market. Many are reluctant to speak to foreign media. One woman, Fatima, said her son lost his job in the war and her family now relies solely on her income. She said: 'We didn't want a war. Trump wanted a war. He attacked us unexpectedly. We didn't want this.' Another stallholder, Khomei, said: 'If it's a problem, it causes an economic issue, but that's war. Everyone needs to get used to it.'

There are many in Israel and Washington who say this war has been assessed. They claim they have killed Iranian commanders, attacked military sites, weapons and radar sites. But not all targets have been reached. If the ceasefire breaks down, Iran will likely tighten its grip on the Strait.

Meanwhile, funeral processions are being held for a senior Iranian leader. Foreign dignitaries from neighbouring countries, including Iraq, as well as officials from Pakistan, India, China and Russia, are expected to attend. The processions will take place in Najaf and Karbala in Iraq. It remains to be seen whether officials from Gulf states will attend, given that Iran launched attacks on US bases and military assets in those countries during the war. The Iranian authorities are presenting the funerals as a sign of international respect for the Islamic Republic.