Strikes target Iranian infrastructure
The United States military carried out fresh strikes on Iranian bridges and infrastructure on Thursday, marking an escalation in the two-week-old conflict over the Strait of Hormuz. US officials confirmed the strikes targeted supply routes and logistics nodes used by Iranian forces to launch attacks on commercial shipping in the strategic waterway.
Iran responded by targeting vessels in the strait with missiles and drones, though no major casualties were reported. The US reimposed a full blockade on Iranian ports, crippling the country's ability to export oil and import goods.
Global oil markets on edge
The conflict has sent shockwaves through global energy markets. The Strait of Hormuz is a chokepoint through which roughly 20 million barrels of oil pass daily — about 20% of global consumption. Analysts warn that a protracted conflict could push oil prices above $120 per barrel and trigger a worldwide recession. The Biden administration's decision to block Iranian ports follows weeks of skirmishes that began after Tehran allegedly mined the strait in late June.
Regional spillover effects
Yemen's Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, struck Saudi Arabia's Abha airport with missiles and drones, widening the conflict's geographic scope. Meanwhile, the US Navy has deployed additional destroyers to the Arabian Gulf. Defense experts told AP News that a larger military presence is needed to secure the strait long-term, raising questions about America's force posture in the region.