Updated

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz escalated sharply, with UKMTO reporting at least three commercial vessels struck by unidentified projectiles since October 1, including a crude oil tanker hit near Oman. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared the American blockade of the strait 'ironclad,' warning Iran against 'playing games' and saying Washington, not Tehran, controls the waterway, with President Trump having 'all options on the table.' Despite the blockade and attacks, oil flows have been resilient — Iraq reported moving two million barrels of crude through Hormuz via a VLCC, and analysts noted Middle East oil supply has nearly returned to pre-war levels through shuttle tankers and bypass pipelines. The standoff reflects the broader US-Israel military pressure campaign against Iran, with Hormuz functioning as a key flashpoint. The unresolved attacks and blockade underscore ongoing risks to global energy markets and raise the possibility of further military escalation if Iran is found responsible for the strikes.