U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has launched a third night of military strikes against Iran under orders from President Donald Trump, coinciding with the reimposition of a naval blockade on Iranian ports. The escalation includes targeted strikes on fortified nuclear facilities and the imposition of a 20% transit fee for goods moving through the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump Orders Strikes on Iranian Nuclear Sites and Naval Blockade
President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. military is targeting Iranian nuclear facilities located “under the mountains,” vowing to destroy them completely. In an interview with Hugh Hewitt on Monday, Trump stated that Iran would face “strong strikes” on Monday and Tuesday. This military push follows the U.S. decision to reimpose a naval blockade on Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz.
While the strikes are underway, Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that a deal to end the war remains “possible.” However, he accused Tehran of failing to respect previous understandings, describing a prior memorandum of understanding as a “test” that Iran failed.
Did you know? The U.S. Navy’s Joint Maritime Information Center specified that the blockade applies to all Iranian ports and coastal areas, regardless of the ship’s flag, though neutral vessels traveling to non-Iranian destinations and inspected humanitarian aid are permitted.
Reports of Explosions and Iranian Military Response
Iranian state media reported immediate impacts from the U.S. operations. The Fars News Agency reported explosions on several islands in the Gulf, including Kish, Qeshm, and Abu Musa. Similarly, the Tasnim News Agency reported “violent” explosions in the city of Konarak around midnight Monday, with further reports of blasts in Chabahar and on Larak Island.
Casualties have already been confirmed. Iranian authorities reported two people dead and others injured following a U.S. attack on various sites in Abadan, southwest Iran. The local Mehr News Agency also reported explosions of “unknown origin” in two areas south of Iran near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has retaliated through both aerial and asymmetric means:
- Drone Warfare: Iranian military sources claim the IRGC shot down a U.S. MQ-1 drone over the Strait of Hormuz using “advanced air defense systems.”
- Regional Strikes: Iran’s official television reported that the military targeted U.S. equipment and facilities in Kuwait using drones.
- Wider Escalation: On Monday, Iran struck military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Jordan in response to U.S. attacks on Sunday.
The 20% Transit Fee and Control of the Strait of Hormuz
In a move that has drawn international scrutiny, President Trump announced the U.S. will collect a 20% fee on all goods shipped through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump told Fox News that the U.S. would control the strait and receive “a lot of money” for doing so, arguing that Washington had protected the waterway for 50 years without compensation.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on X (formerly Twitter), stating that Iran “was and will remain the guardian of the strait.” In a sarcastic tone, Araghchi suggested that while those ensuring safe passage should be compensated, the 20% figure is “exaggerated.”
The UN shipping agency expressed opposition to the move. A spokesperson for the agency stated there is “no legal basis” for imposing mandatory transit fees on an international navigation strait.
Legal Disputes Over War Powers in Washington
The White House formally notified Congress of the resumption of military operations via a letter dated July 10, addressed to Acting Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley. According to a copy of the notification obtained by ABC News, the operations are “limited, deliberate, and planned” to minimize civilian casualties; notably, U.S. ground forces are not participating.
This notification has triggered a legal clash. Some Democratic members of Congress argue the administration has exceeded the 60-day window permitted by the War Powers Resolution to conduct military operations without congressional approval. The White House maintains that a previous ceasefire reset the clock, though it remains unclear if the July 10 notice initiates a new 60-day period.
Pro Tip: For those tracking global markets, keep a close eye on Brent Crude futures. The IRGC has explicitly stated that the return of normal navigation is contingent on the end of U.S. military intervention, meaning energy prices will likely remain volatile.
Global Energy Impact and Market Volatility
The conflict has shifted the Strait of Hormuz into a primary battleground. Following Iran’s closure of the strait on Saturday—which Tehran attributed to “unauthorized crossings”—global oil prices jumped sharply on Monday. The IRGC warned that continued U.S. intervention will “exacerbate crises in the global oil and gas sector.”
Comparison of Strategic Positions
| Entity | Stated Goal | Primary Tactic |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Eliminate nuclear sites; monetize security | Naval blockade & precision strikes |
| Iran | End U.S. intervention; maintain sovereignty | Drone attacks & strait closure |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the U.S. imposing a fee on the Strait of Hormuz?
President Trump stated the 20% fee is intended to cover the costs of providing security and safety in the region, claiming the U.S. has protected the area for 50 years for free.
Are U.S. ground troops involved in the strikes?
No. According to the White House notification to Congress, U.S. ground forces are not participating in these operations.
How has Iran responded to the naval blockade?
Iran has closed the strait to traffic, launched drones at U.S. facilities in Kuwait, and targeted military bases in Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan.
What is the legal controversy in the U.S. Congress?
Democrats argue the administration has bypassed the War Powers Resolution by exceeding the 60-day limit for military action without a formal congressional vote.
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