Iran threatens to block more trade routes as US launches fresh strikes
BBC News 2026-07-15 11:08:59
Context: The conflict between the US and Iran escalated as the US launched fresh strikes on Iranian military targets, prompting Iran to threaten blocking additional trade routes in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil and gas exports, remains shut until the US ends its "acts of aggression," according to Iran's Revolutionary Guards. The situation intensified with US President Donald Trump vowing to target Iran's energy infrastructure if the country does not return to talks.
Key Facts
- The US military's Central Command carried out drone, air, and navy strikes on Iran, including a seven-hour operation overnight, in addition to the fresh wave of strikes on Wednesday morning.
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards warned that other regional oil and gas export channels could be closed, in response to the renewed US blockade on Iranian ports imposed on Tuesday evening.
- US President Donald Trump stated in an interview that he would "save the energy targets for last, but ultimately we'll hit energy targets" if Iran does not return to talks.
- A 20% toll previously threatened by Trump in the Strait of Hormuz would be replaced by "massive" trade and investment deals with Gulf states.
- Iran's state-run broadcaster reported that the country's army had carried out separate attacks on US targets in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain, with the US allies intercepting drones and missiles launched from Iran.