Key facts
- The US and Iran have clashed over control of the Strait of Hormuz.
- The UAE reported two of its national tankers were targeted by Iranian cruise missiles in Omani territorial waters.
- One Indian crew member was killed and eight others were wounded in the tanker attacks.
- US President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 20% tariff on all cargoes shipped through the strait.
- The US has conducted three consecutive nights of strikes on Iran.
- Iran has claimed sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and attacked vessels.
The United States and Iran are engaged in a tense standoff over control of the Strait of Hormuz, with both nations asserting their influence over the vital waterway. The UAE reported that two of its national tankers were hit by Iranian cruise missiles in Omani territorial waters, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries among the crew. This incident occurred amidst a third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran.
US President Donald Trump has stated that Washington will reinstate a maritime blockade on Iran and impose a 20% tariff on all cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could violate global norms of free navigation and further disrupt regional economies. Iran, meanwhile, has claimed sovereignty over the strait and asserted its own attacks on vessels and bases.
The escalating conflict raises concerns about a full resumption of hostilities, as an interim deal aimed at ending the war, which began with the assassination of Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei, appears to be collapsing.