US-Iran Conflict: Trump’s Moves & Hormuz Situation – July 31, 2026

US-Israeli Strikes on Iranian Energy Infrastructure and Hormuz Standoff

The United States and Israel are planning what could become the most severe bombing campaign against Iranian energy infrastructure yet, according to sources cited by CBS News. The Wall Street Journal similarly reported that President Donald Trump approved a new military offensive against Iran that could last for several days.

Meanwhile, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains intensely contested. According to the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), 34 ships have been affected by military operations, including 30 commercial vessels diverted from their routes, two put out of service, and two boarded by American forces. This response follows claims by the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, an entity established by Tehran, that the strait is closed due to aggressive US military actions. However, CENTCOM explicitly rejected Tehran’s assertions, maintaining that the crucial waterway remains open and outside Iranian control.

Gaza Peace Plan Road Map and Diplomatic Reactions

Progress on the peace framework for Gaza continues alongside widespread international reactions. Hamas has confirmed its acceptance of a 15-point road map for the implementation phase of the peace plan mediated through the Board of Peace, which includes the gradual disarmament of the group, the dismantling of military tunnels, and the withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to the original Yellow Line established in October 2025.

Despite the agreement, significant hurdles remain regarding verification and execution.

Saudi Offensive Preparations and Regional Security Shifts

In the southern theatre, Saudi Arabia is preparing a major military offensive against the Houthi movement by sea and potentially via land in central Yemen, as reported by The Guardian citing Yemeni sources. Saudi forces have reportedly withdrawn from eastern Yemen to stage the ground operation, while Riyadh simultaneously attempts to assemble a naval coalition to safeguard maritime traffic in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandab strait.

These developments follow a Houthi-announced naval blockade against Saudi vessels and multiple drone attacks directed at Saudi oil infrastructure. In response, joint US-Saudi airstrikes targeted Houthi military installations. Further compounding the regional security picture, the Iraqi government announced plans to reinforce its air defenses and intelligence capabilities following joint US-Saudi airstrikes that killed 20 members of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) after drones targeted the kingdom from Iraqi territory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current status of the Strait of Hormuz?

According to CENTCOM, the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial traffic and is not controlled by Iran, despite Tehran’s claims of closure and reports of 34 vessels impacted by military operations and diversions.

What are the key terms of the Gaza peace road map?

The agreement negotiated through the Board of Peace involves the gradual disarmament of Hamas, the dismantling of tunnels, the deployment of an International Stabilization Force and a technocratic National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, and the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces to the October 2025 Yellow Line.

Why is Saudi Arabia preparing an offensive in Yemen?

According to reports in The Guardian, Riyadh is organizing a military campaign by sea and land in central Yemen following Houthi naval blockades, drone attacks against Saudi oil assets, and ongoing threats to commercial shipping in the Red Sea.