WS #10268

The dominant signal in this window is the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, citing Israeli strikes on Lebanon and U.S. ceasefire failures. This is corroborated by multiple sources (Axios, Al Jazeera, The Hill, and numerous Bluesky posts), marking an escalation from the contested narrative in the previous window. The closure is a significant geopolitical event with direct implications for oil prices and energy stocks. However, a counter-signal emerges from CENTCOM, which confirms the strait remains open with 55 merchant ships transiting today, creating a contested information environment. Additionally, a major development in the semiconductor space: Trump announces Apple will work with Intel on US-made chips, boosting Intel shares 7% and providing a positive catalyst for the sector. This is corroborated by GDELT and SeekingAlpha. The overall narrative arc on the Strait of Hormuz is ESCALATING, but the CENTCOM denial acts as a partial counter. The Apple-Intel deal is a new high-significance positive that should be carried forward.