The United States has reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports less than a month after signing a memorandum of understanding intended as a step towards peace. On Wednesday, July 15th, 2026, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it concluded its latest wave of attacks on Iran in response to Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

CENTCOM reported that at approximately 02:00 GMT, it launched an additional round of strikes targeting “dozens of military targets” near the Strait of Hormuz and along Iranian coastal areas. The operation lasted seven hours, during which US fighter aircraft, drones, and naval vessels deployed precision munitions against Iranian missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, and coastal defense systems.

Hossein Kermanpour, spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Health, stated that more than 260 people were injured in the overnight US attacks in Iran. The renewed blockade and military actions raise questions about the ability of Gulf countries to defend themselves against ongoing Iranian attacks.

The situation remains tense as the US continues its military campaign, including strikes near the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz and at locations such as Iran’s Pickaxe Mountain, a site reportedly warned by US officials.

Sources