US‑Iran naval showdown fuels Gulf tensions and oil price spike

The United States resumed a naval blockade of Iranian ports, deploying more than 20 warships and hundreds of aircraft. U.S. forces struck Iranian targets in Khuzestan, Abadan, Mahshahr, Qeshm Island, Bushehr and Bandar Abbas, saying the aim was to degrade capabilities used against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the action “completely dismantled” the June 17 memorandum of understanding, adding that Iran is no longer bound by the pact.

Iran retaliated by attacking U.S. interests and regional allies. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported hitting U.S. bases in Bahrain and Kuwait, disabling two super‑tankers and launching cruise‑missile strikes on UAE vessels Al‑Bahiya and Mombasa, killing one Indian seafarer and injuring eight others. Tehran warned that “not a drop of oil will pass through the Strait” while accusing Washington of violating the UN Charter.

The escalation prompted coordinated condemnations from the EU, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation and the Arab League, which called for freedom of navigation and an end to the attacks.

Oil markets reacted sharply; Brent crude rose more than 9 % to over $85 per barrel and U.S. WTI climbed to about $79, reflecting fears of supply disruption. President Donald Trump announced, then withdrew, a 20 % fee for ships transiting the strait, replacing it with proposed trade deals.

Canadian vessels remain trapped in the Hormuz corridor, awaiting safe passage after weeks of blockade.