Explained: US strikes Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz, official says, leaving unclear what comes next

The United States launched strikes on Iranian targets, according to a U.S. official

Strait of Hormuz

A strategic waterway near Iran through which about a fifth of the world's oil supply flows during peacetime

naval blockade

U.S. military operation using troops in the waters off Iran to prevent tankers carrying Iranian oil from reaching the global market

surface-to-air missiles

Missiles fired from the ground or sea to target aircraft, used by Iranians against the U.S. in the strait

back-channel negotiations

Indirect or informal diplomatic talks, in this case involving Israel and Middle East allies lobbying Trump