US and Iran Engage in Vessel Showdown Over Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz has become a focal point in the ongoing tensions between the US and Iran, with recent attacks on each other's vessels pushing oil prices higher. On Saturday, the IRGC launched ballistic missiles at two US Navy warships, prompting the US to strike three Iranian crude oil tankers.
According to Central Command, the IRGC targeted the US Navy, while the US responded by disabling three of Iran's oil tankers. The vessels were part of a multibillion-dollar shadow network that funds the IRGC and its regional proxies, Centcom added.
The attacks have resulted in traffic through the waterway falling to its lowest level in three months, with 10 ships per day crossing the strait over the past 10 days. The US has redirected 92 commercial vessels, disabled three, and boarded two to ensure strict compliance.