On August 23, 2026, Iranian media focused on escalating threats over the Strait of Hormuz. Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, warned that continued economic war would halt all oil exports through the strait, a statement echoed by state-aligned outlets. The US House Speaker predicted a new phase in the war, while Iran's parliament committee approved fees for ships passing through the strait. The rial hit a record low past 200,000 per dollar, and the execution of protester Majid Adineh was reported. Diplomatic moves included a planned visit by Pakistan's army chief to Tehran and France's expulsion of Iranian diplomats.