US Reimposes Iran Oil Sanctions After Iranian Attacks in Strait of Hormuz

Tensions in the Persian Gulf have sharply escalated following Iranian missile attacks on commercial vessels in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The United States responded by revoking recent oil sanctions relief granted to Tehran under a memorandum of understanding signed less than three weeks ago, signaling a collapse of the tentative agreements reached in Swiss talks and raising the risk of further regional conflict.

According to US reports, Iran's Revolutionary Guards launched at least two missiles overnight targeting commercial ships passing through the strait. Two vessels were hit, suffering significant damage including a deck fire on one, though no crew injuries were reported. This incident marks the second attack within 24 hours, as two other merchant ships were struck by missile fire near Omani waters just a day earlier, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency.

The surge in attacks follows inconclusive indirect negotiations between the US and Iran in Doha, with Washington assessing that Iran is intensifying military pressure to strengthen its bargaining position. US President Donald Trump addressed the rising tensions from the White House, stating, "We will win one way or another. Either we make a deal or we finish the job," while expressing a preference for negotiation to avoid widespread civilian harm in Iran.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards issued a defiant statement declaring the Strait of Hormuz will remain completely closed. They linked reopening the strait to political and military demands including Israeli withdrawal from Lebanon, lifting the maritime blockade, and US troop withdrawal from the Persian Gulf. Iranian forces warned all vessels to avoid the strait for their safety, underscoring the threat of further attacks.

The current crisis places the region at heightened risk of escalation as both sides maintain firm stances. Further updates are expected as the situation develops.