US and Iran Trade Strikes Over Strait of Hormuz

In mid-July 2026, the United States and Iran exchanged military strikes centered on the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway crucial for global oil shipments. The US launched fresh attacks on Iranian positions, while Iran also struck back, and both sides disputed whether the strait remained open for shipping. The escalation led to a jump in oil prices as traders worried about disruptions to energy supplies.

The standoff involved the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and came amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region. Some ships reportedly passed through the strait in secret to avoid attacks. The US and Iran each claimed to have inflicted damage, but neither side confirmed a clear advantage, and the situation remained volatile.