U.S. hits Iran as Gulf states targeted in flare-up over Hormuz
The United States has launched a second day of strikes against Iranian targets amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded by targeting U.S. allies in the Gulf, causing a spike in global oil prices.
Why it matters
The conflict threatens global energy security and risks a wider regional war, complicating diplomatic efforts to maintain the ceasefire.
The United States struck Iran Monday (July 13, 2026) for a second day running, drawing Tehran's reprisals against U.S. allies in the Gulf as the foes battle over the status of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
The fresh fighting and Iran's announcement over the weekend of a new closure of Hormuz — a key conduit in the world's oil trade — sent crude prices climbing on Monday (July 13) and further battered an interim peace deal.
Iran responded to the latest U.S. attacks by targeting Gulf nations, with the powerful Revolutionary Guards announcing new strikes on Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, according to state media reports.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces had completed their latest barrage, which began overnight Sunday (July 12), on dozens of Iranian targets.
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