US-Iran Conflict Flares Up in Strait of Hormuz

The US and Iran have exchanged blows in the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic shipping lane through which one-fifth of the world's oil passes. The latest escalation occurred on Sunday when the United States said it had attacked Iranian rocket launchers on a small island in the strait.

Tehran vowed to retaliate with a 'decisive response' after US forces took 'limited, precise action' against IRGC minelaying forces posing an imminent threat. The Revolutionary Guards claimed to have shot down a US drone over the Strait of Hormuz and struck two US military air bases in Washington-allied Jordan.

Jordan's army intercepted eight missiles without stating their origin, according to AFP. Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz since hostilities began six months ago, causing price hikes and shortages worldwide.