The Globe and Mail reports in its Wednesday edition that the United States and Iran escalated tensions on Wednesday after a significant exchange, with Washington threatening further strikes. A Reuters dispatch to The Globe reports that the exchange ended a ceasefire period during which the warring parties showed scant interest in talks. The lull in the conflict reflects the toll on both sides. Iran's economy and military are under strain, while President Donald Trump faces rising fuel prices ahead of the November midterms. The U.S. Army has depleted much of its stockpile of precision long-range missiles, raising concerns about military readiness for future conflicts. Nonetheless, the renewal of hostilities produced another exchange of defiant statements. Mr. Trump said, "I like our position now much better, with almost total control of the Hormuz Strait." Iran's joint military command said, "We warn that the continuation of American evil in the region will be met with heavier, more widespread, and devastating responses, and any country that cooperates with the aggressive American army must accept its dangerous consequences." Five people were killed and 50 wounded at a wedding near Sirik, a coastal area on the strait.