US Reimposes Sanctions on Iranian Oil Amid Strait of Hormuz Attacks

The US Treasury Department announced it will revoke the waiver allowing Iran to produce and sell oil, a permit initially granted on June 22. This decision follows a series of attacks on oil tankers in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. A senior US official condemned Iran's actions in the vital shipping lane as "completely unacceptable" and warned that Iran would face consequences. Despite the tensions, the official noted that mediators are still working toward a final deal.

Earlier today, Iran's Revolutionary Guards fired missiles at two commercial vessels near the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz, confirmed by a US official speaking to the Wall Street Journal. Iranian state television acknowledged attacking at least one tanker carrying liquefied gas, accusing it of ignoring warnings. US reports indicate at least one ship was hit. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that negotiations for a final agreement will not proceed while threats continue, urging respect for signed commitments. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowed punishment for those responsible for the killing of Ali Khamenei and linked the final phase of retaliation to "the liberation of Jerusalem."

In response to US President Donald Trump's recent remarks, Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary warned Trump to address the Iranian people respectfully or face a different response. Trump, speaking from the White House's Oval Office, reiterated his preference for a deal but threatened further action if necessary, emphasizing that Iran must never acquire nuclear weapons. He claimed the US had destroyed Iran's naval capabilities and imposed a blockade that halted all ship movements for two months. Trump also threatened to disable Iran's energy infrastructure swiftly, asserting that the US had cut off Iran's financial resources and could shut down all major power plants within hours.

The developments underscore escalating tensions between the US and Iran amid ongoing negotiations and recent maritime confrontations in the Gulf region.