The U.S. has undertaken its third consecutive night of airstrikes targeting Iran. President Donald Trump has revealed plans to implement a maritime blockade on the nation. Additionally, a 20% tariff will be imposed on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz, under U.S.-controlled security protocols.
According to the U.S. Central Command, the airstrikes aim to diminish Iran’s military power and deter attacks on commercial shipping and civilians in the strategically vital waterway. President Trump emphasized that military actions against Iran would persist, affirming the U.S.’s commitment to maintaining security control over the strait.
This move comes in the wake of reports that two oil tankers from the UAE were struck by Iranian cruise missiles in Omani waters. The attacks resulted in the death of an Indian crew member and injuries to several others. The escalating situation has driven Brent crude oil prices up by nearly 8%, highlighting growing apprehensions regarding global energy supplies.
Iran has strongly criticized the proposed blockade, accusing the U.S. of jeopardizing international energy security and cautioning that any attempts to limit its maritime access would be met with significant resistance. Furthermore, international maritime authorities have pointed out that enforcing mandatory transit fees in international waters lacks a legal foundation under current international law.
The intensifying military tension has sparked concerns about a broader regional conflict, with ongoing attacks disrupting shipping routes, elevating oil prices, and injecting uncertainty into the global economy.