The US and Iran are trading blows, with Iran shutting the Strait of Hormuz and America bombing Iranian targets — bad news for the region, oil shipping, and anyone hoping to avoid another endless war.

• Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most important oil shipping lane, and says no ships can pass until US attacks stop.
• The US launched a third round of strikes on Iran, ordered directly by Trump, after Iran attacked a container ship and left a crew member missing.
• Iran warns of a "forceful response" and may hit US bases in the region, raising the risk of drone attacks spreading.
• Iran says it can fight and negotiate at the same time, leaving a thin opening for diplomacy.
• Even Trump voters are souring — many say he ignored high prices and got the country into a costly foreign fight.

Outlook: Expect more bombing and rising oil-supply fears, with no ground troops likely before the midterms and no quick end in sight.