Iran tensions over Strait of Hormuz
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The gist
Two oil supertankers were struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz late Monday. The US and Iran are locked in a tanker war over the strategic waterway.
Background
The US and Iran have been engaged in a months-long conflict that began on February 28 with US-Israeli attacks. Iran has effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20 percent of the world's oil supplies flowed, in retaliation. The recent strikes mark a renewed escalation after a month-long hiatus, with both sides attacking tankers and military targets.
How it unfolded
- Feb 28, 2026US-Israeli attacks on Iran begin, sparking the conflict.
- Jun 2026US and Iran reach a deal that quickly falls apart over interpretations of Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz.
- Aug 30, 2026US forces attack Iran's Larak Island; Iran responds by launching missiles at two US air bases in Jordan.
- Aug 31, 2026Two oil supertankers exiting the Strait of Hormuz are struck by projectiles, according to maritime security consultant Marisks.
- Sep 1, 2026US launches a new wave of strikes on Iranian targets, including air defense and communications sites, in retaliation for Iran's attacks on shipping.
- Sep 2, 2026Iran claims the two tankers hit naval mines, but the US disputes this. Trump calls on the Iranian people to rise up.
- Sep 6, 2026Iran's top security chief announces a 'prohibited zone' near the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran claims it struck an unmanned US vessel.
- Sep 7, 2026Iran says the 'ball has long been in the US court' and calls on Washington to halt military attacks and economic measures.
Who’s saying what
- US
- The US says its strikes are retaliation for Iran's attempts to add sea mines and attack commercial shipping, and warns of further strikes if Iran retaliates.
- Iran
- Iran says the US is responsible for the situation and must end its aggression, sanctions, and naval blockade, warning that if the enemy wants to stop its oil exports, no one will be able to export oil.
Still unverified
Iran's claim that the two tankers hit naval mines is disputed by the US. Reports of casualties at a wedding near Sirik, with differing numbers of wounded, have not been independently confirmed.