Tensions escalated sharply in the Strait of Hormuz after Iran launched an attack on two tankers belonging to the United Arab Emirates. The cruise missile strikes killed one Indian crew member and left eight others seriously injured. Among the injured were six Indian nationals and two Ukrainian nationals, with four of them reported to be in critical condition. The attacks targeted the tankers Mombasa and Al Bahia as they navigated the strategic shipping route through Omani waters.
The UAE Ministry of Defence strongly condemned the attacks, describing them as a violation of international law and a major threat to regional security. The country stated it was prepared to take any necessary measures to protect its territory, its citizens, and its national sovereignty. The UAE Defence Ministry further stated that it remained on high alert and would respond firmly to any attempt to undermine its national security.
The latest attacks come amid the ongoing struggle between Iran and the United States for control over the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway of critical importance to the global supply of oil and natural gas. Following these developments, Brent crude oil prices rose 7.8 percent in international markets to reach $81.92 per barrel. Although prices had climbed as high as $120 during previous periods of conflict, experts are warning that the current increase could lead to further price rises worldwide.
The United States military has once again launched a series of attacks on Iran. The US Central Command stated that these strikes are aimed at degrading Iran’s capability to attack innocent civilians and commercial vessels, and that such operations will continue. US President Trump described the operation as a massive strike, stating that American forces were hitting Iran very hard, repelling its attacks, taking control of the strait, and re-establishing a blockade.
Trump stated that the United States was providing protection to the region and that this came at a cost. He made clear that fees would now be collected from vessels in exchange for the protection being provided, reversing an earlier position in which he had said no such fees would be charged. These developments have sparked intense discussion on the international stage.