The US and Iran have engaged in a renewed exchange of strikes following attacks on three oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (Centcom) reported launching “powerful” strikes, hitting over 80 targets, including Iranian air defense systems, coastal radar, and fast boats. These US strikes were a direct response to Iran's actions against commercial shipping in the vital waterway.
Iran retaliated by targeting US military facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait, including a US Navy headquarters and an air base, with missiles and drones. Iranian media reported the first casualty, Guardsman Mohammadreza Khazini, from US strikes. The US also revoked a temporary waiver that had lifted oil sanctions on Iran, a move that Iran's foreign ministry called a breach of a memorandum of understanding signed last month.
Oil prices rose significantly, with Brent crude increasing by more than 3% to $76 (£56.88) per barrel. This escalation in hostilities has cast doubt on a preliminary agreement signed in June between the US and Iran aimed at ending their four-month conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. NATO chief Mark Rutte described the American strikes as “absolutely necessary,” stating that Iran was “basically violating the ceasefire.”
