US launches new strikes after Iran-backed Houthis declare blockade of another key oil route
The US has launched a series of military strikes against Iranian targets following the death of three American soldiers and threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, mediators are attempting to facilitate a truce as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
Why it matters
The widening conflict between the US and Iran-backed forces poses a significant risk to global energy security and regional stability.
— 2:41pm , first published July 21, 2026 — 5:57am
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Share A A A Washington: American forces struck Iranian targets after US President Donald Trump vowed Tehran “will pay” for killing three US soldiers, even as mediators proposed a new truce with the Middle East war widening further.
US Central Command said it had completed the latest wave of strikes at about 9pm on Monday (Washington time), the 10th straight day of attacks.
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