U.S., Iran Exchange Strikes, Blockade Reinstated in Hormuz
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- Iran’s Revolutionary Guards struck U.S. military targets in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait, including Prince Hassan Air Base and Ali Al Salem airbase, according to state media.
- U.S. forces launched new attacks against Iran on July 12, 2026, following renewed fighting near the Strait of Hormuz that endangered several Gulf allies.
- One person was killed and four wounded in southwestern Iran during U.S. strikes, state media reported on Monday.
- Trump announced the U.S. is reinstating a maritime blockade on Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and will charge ships for safe passage, as reported by multiple outlets.
- The U.S. military targeted 80+ Iranian sites in recent actions, following threats to shipping and attacks on allied bases in the Gulf region.
Why it matters: The U.S. blockade and Iran’s retaliatory strikes mark a decisive breakdown in the June 17 ceasefire, risking prolonged conflict in a critical oil transit zone. With direct attacks now exchanged and Trump authorizing tolls on Hormuz shipping, energy markets face renewed volatility and regional allies are drawn deeper into hostilities.
