U.S. Central Command said the United States launched strikes against Iran on July 13, 2026, following additional Iranian attacks [1].
These military actions occur as the U.S. seeks to maintain control over critical shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation threatens to further destabilize one of the world's most vital maritime corridors, impacting global energy security, and trade.
U.S. Central Command said the decision to conduct further strikes was a direct response to Iranian aggression in the region [2]. The military operations began on July 13, 2026 [3], as the U.S. worked to neutralize threats to naval transit.
Parallel to the military engagement, President Donald Trump announced a renewed blockade of the region. As part of this strategy, Trump demanded a 20% fee for shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz [4].
The blockade and the accompanying tolls represent a significant shift in U.S. policy toward the waterway. The administration said these measures are intended to ensure the security of the shipping lanes, while applying economic pressure on Iran [4].
U.S. Central Command said the cycle of attacks and counter-strikes continues as both sides maintain a presence in the contested waters [2]. The U.S. military remains on high alert to protect commercial vessels and military assets from further Iranian strikes [2].
“U.S. Central Command said the United States launched strikes against Iran on July 13, 2026”
The combination of active military strikes and the imposition of a shipping fee signals a transition from containment to an aggressive economic and kinetic strategy. By demanding a percentage of shipping costs, the U.S. is treating the Strait of Hormuz as a controlled zone, which may lead to increased volatility in global oil prices and heightened diplomatic tension with other regional powers.
