Iran threatens to block more trade routes as US launches fresh strikes

July 15, 2026

The United States has conducted multiple waves of military strikes against Iranian targets, focusing on coastal defenses and missile facilities, after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz—a crucial global shipping route. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have threatened to keep the strait closed and potentially block additional regional trade routes until US military operations cease. The conflict has caused oil prices to surge and tanker traffic to halt, while President Trump has threatened to escalate attacks to include Iranian bridges, power plants, and eventually energy infrastructure if negotiations don't resume.

Who is affected

Iran (military targets, Revolutionary Guards, coastal defenses)
United States (military forces, Central Command)
President Donald Trump
Commercial shipping companies and tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz
Gulf states
US allies: Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain
The global economy (affected by oil price increases and shipping disruptions)
UN human rights chief Volker Türk

What action is being taken

The US military is conducting drone, air, and navy strikes on Iranian military targets, including coastal defenses and missile sites
Iran is blocking the Strait of Hormuz to shipping traffic
The US has imposed a blockade on Iranian ports
Iran is carrying out attacks on US targets in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain
US allies are intercepting drones and missiles launched from Iran
Oil prices are rising sharply

Why it matters

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically vital shipping route for the global economy, particularly for oil and gas exports. The closure of this strait and the resulting halt in tanker traffic has immediate worldwide economic consequences, as evidenced by sharp oil price increases. The escalating military conflict between the US and Iran threatens regional stability and could expand to affect additional trade routes, potentially causing broader disruption to international commerce and energy supplies. The situation also raises serious concerns about international law, as threats against civilian infrastructure constitute potential war crimes.

What's next

President Trump has stated he will strike Iran's bridges and power plants next week if Iran does not return to talks, with energy targets planned as a final escalation measure. Trump also mentioned that the 20% toll threatened for the Strait of Hormuz would be replaced by "massive" trade and investment deals with Gulf states.

Read full article from source: BBC