New US attacks in Iran: tensions in the Gulf and rising oil prices

New U.S. Airstrikes Against Iranian Targets Reignite Tensions in the Gulf

The United States launched new airstrikes against Iranian targets on Tuesday, thwarting hopes of a de-escalation after the weekend's exchange of blows. This new round of violence has further escalated tensions in the Persian Gulf region, already critical for global energy supplies. The situation is made even more explosive by Iran's announcement that it intends to block oil exports from the region, a threat that could have significant repercussions on international energy markets.

Quick Response

and details of the attacks

The U.S. Central Command announced on X (formerly Twitter) that American forces began striking IRGC targets at 12:00 ET (16:00 GMT). The attacks were a direct response to the IRGC's attempts to attack commercial traffic in the Strait of Hormuz and U.S. military personnel in the region.

Local reports indicate explosions in several strategic locations in Iran, including Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas port, Chabahar, Jask, and Sirik. The Iranian news agency IRNA confirmed the sounds of explosions in these areas, all crucial for the transit and export of Iranian oil.

Reciprocal Responses and Threats

President Donald Trump posted a message on social media, warning that if Iran had responded to the attacks, "it would have been hit again, and with much greater force." The Fars news agency quoted an IRGC spokesman as saying that the United States "would regret its new attacks."

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated during a press conference in Tehran that Washington was "dependent on making excessive demands and had confused negotiations with the imposition of conditions." He added that Iran would "use all its capabilities, both on the battlefield and through its diplomatic apparatus."

Economic Implications and Sanctions

Before the latest attacks, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced that Washington was about to impose new economic sanctions against Iran, including measures against airlines and banks. During a meeting of G20 finance ministers in Asheville, North Carolina, Bessent stated that the United States had "zero tolerance" and would "economically asphyxiate the Iranian regime."

The U.S. sanctions aim to hit Iran's sources of income, particularly oil exports and the acquisition of weapons components. Bessent also warned that countries doing business with Iran could face U.S. sanctions.

Impact on Energy Markets

Brent oil prices have risen by nearly 4% following the latest developments, reflecting concerns about possible disruptions in oil supply from the Persian Gulf region. Two Saudi supertankers were hit by unknown projectiles while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Monday evening, according to data from maritime intelligence and tracking companies Marisks and Kpler.

Analyst PVM John Evans stated that "the tit-for-tat missile exchanges between the United States and Iran give validation to those who believe that, even if not a 'never-ending war,' this conflict will continue."

Future Prospects

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had stated earlier on Tuesday, during a regional summit in Kyrgyzstan, that Tehran would respond immediately if Washington had honored its commitments under a June Memorandum of Understanding, which was intended to stop the conflict. However, the Memorandum postponed many of the most difficult issues and paved the way for a broader 60-day negotiation period, which expired without further agreements.

The current situation underscores how a conflict that has increasingly been fought through sanctions, blockades, and economic pressures can quickly reignite into direct military actions. Statements from both sides indicate a potentially dangerous escalation, with significant implications for regional and global stability.

Warnings to Citizens and Closure of Airspaces

The U.S. Embassy in Qatar has advised American citizens currently in the Middle East to exercise "increased attention and be aware of potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions." This warning reflects growing concerns about security in the region and potential disruptions to essential services.

As the situation evolves, it remains crucial to closely monitor developments on both the military and diplomatic fronts, as actions and statements from both sides could have significant repercussions not only in the Persian Gulf region but also on global energy markets and international stability.