Iran hits out at Gulf neighbours as U.S. presses on with strikes
Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have escalated following attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to rising oil prices and a collapse of preliminary peace talks. The U.S. is calling for international support to secure global shipping lanes as military casualties increase.
Why it matters
The conflict threatens global energy supplies and risks a broader regional war, impacting international trade and geopolitical stability.
Washington and Tehran traded strikes on Monday (July 20, 2026) as U.S. deaths in the renewed fighting climbed to three and more ships came under attack in the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Oil prices surged to a one-month high as the United States and Iran tussled for control of the vital strait, with Brent crude rising above $91 a barrel — the highest price since June 11.
Since the start of the war on February 28, Iran has struck back by targeting U.S. allies and military assets in its own neighbourhood, and by virtually blocking the waterway through which a fifth of world oil supplies transited prior to the war.
A preliminary deal aimed at ending the war has collapsed as the foes fight to break a deadlock over the Strait of Hormuz.
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