On Monday, July 13, 2026, US President Donald Trump declared the reinstatement of the US blockade of Iran in the Strait of Hormuz and announced that the US will begin charging ships from other countries a 20% fee on all cargo shipped through the strait in exchange for providing security.
This announcement preceded the US military's resumption of strikes on Iran following a weekend of missile exchanges between the two nations. Trump sent a formal notification to Congress on July 7, 2026, signaling the resumption of hostilities and opening a 60-day window for military action without further congressional approval.
Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump expressed that a deal with Iran was "still possible" despite the renewed military conflict but declined to specify how long the war might last. He emphasized his responsibility to protect Americans and US national security interests in a letter dated July 10, 2026.
The US maintains a significant military presence in Bahrain, hosting the headquarters of the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, and has previously insisted that the Strait of Hormuz remain open to all without tolls, as was the case before US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, 2026.
Additional developments include the first use of American sea drones in combat, with three Corsair unmanned surface vessels striking the port at Bandar Abbas Naval Base in Iran.
The Ministry of Interior has urged the public to follow safety advice amid the escalating conflict.
Notable Quotes:
- "We've demolished their military. We're hitting them very hard."
- "We're protecting a very rich portion of the world."
- "We're spending money. And so, what we've done is, we are going to be reimbursed for protection."
- "Three Corsair unmanned surface vessels hit the port at Bandar Abbas Naval Base, marking the first time American forces have employed sea drones in combat operations."
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