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Tue, 14 Jul 2026

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 UAE condemns Iran's 'brazen' attack on tankers as US launches fresh strikes

The third consecutive night of US strikes on Iran came as Trump announced a 20% charge as part of a new blockade on the Strait of Hormuz.
1. US imposes naval blockade: The US has imposed a naval blockade on all Iranian ports, which is aimed at putting pressure on Tehran. 2. Iran retaliates with missile and drone attacks: Iran fired missiles and drones at US military bases in several Gulf countries in response to the blockade. 3. Maritime traffic drops dramatically: Maritime traffic through the strait dropped significantly due to the conflict, leading to a rise in oil prices. 4. US lifts blockade in June: The US lifted the naval blockade in June as part of a memorandum of understanding between the two countries that aimed to end the conflict. 5. Disputes over the strait resurface: Disputes over the strait have resurfaced, and the US has now announced that it will charge other countries 20% of all cargo shipped through the strait in order to "reimburse" the US for its efforts to keep the strait open. 6. UN rules allow countries to exercise control: The UN allows countries to exercise control over territorial seas up to 12 nautical miles from their coastline, which is relevant to the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz. The article notes that Trump's latest announcement could become politically complicated for him domestically, as some lawmakers and constituents are likely to question why oil prices are rising again despite repeated promises to the contrary. The announcement may also be a bid to restart negotiations and push other countries to be more involved in resolving the conflict.