Oil tankers attacked near Strait of Hormuz amid rising Iran-U.S. tensions

Military tensions flared near the Strait of Hormuz as two oil tankers faced separate incidents involving explosions and projectile strikes. One tanker reported a large explosion nearby, while another was hit by an unidentified projectile, rendering it inoperable. The incidents occurred on July 31, with the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) releasing details on August 1.

While the perpetrators remain unconfirmed, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) asserted it had attacked two oil tankers escorted by U.S. forces. The IRGC claimed the tankers ignored warnings and attempted to navigate an "unreported route" under U.S. air escort, leading to their "halt." This Iranian claim has not been independently verified, and it's unclear if it relates to the UKMTO-reported incidents.

Meanwhile, reports suggest the U.S. and Israel are preparing for significant airstrikes targeting Iran's energy infrastructure, potentially beginning this weekend. U.S. diplomatic missions in Amman, Jerusalem, and Baghdad have advised their citizens to consider departing the region due to escalating tensions. Iran's Central Command warned that any nation acting as a U.S. shield would face retaliation, while U.S. President Donald Trump stated his diminishing trust in Iran and vowed strong retaliation.