The United States military began a third successive night of precision strikes against Iranian military assets early Tuesday (local Monday), at 4:45 pm ET, under the direction of President Donald Trump. According to U.S. Central Command (Centcom), the attacks hit coastal surveillance systems, drone capabilities, and missile infrastructure, aiming to blunt Iran’s ability to threaten civilian and commercial shipping in the strategic waterway.

Background and Rationale

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one‑fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, has become the flashpoint of a widening U.S.–Iran confrontation. U.S. officials argue that Iranian forces have been probing the strait and targeting commercial vessels, prompting a decisive military response to protect global trade routes.

Explosions Reported Across Southern Iran

Following the strikes, Iranian state media confirmed multiple explosions in the south. In the port city of Bandar Abbas, three blasts were heard, and the Hormozgan provincial government reported a projectile impact in the city’s western sector, though no casualties were immediately confirmed. Additional explosions were reported on Kish, Qeshm, and Abu Musa islands, as well as in Bushehr’s Jam and Kangan districts.

Trump’s Blockade Announcement

Shortly after the attacks, President Trump declared the reinstatement of a maritime blockade on Iranian shipping and a 20% surcharge on cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz. He framed the fee as “a matter of fairness” for the security the United States provides in the region. In an interview with conservative radio host Hugh Hewitt, Trump warned of “hard hits” tonight and tomorrow, emphasizing that Iran “has no recourse” against the U.S. actions.

Global Oil Market Reaction

Oil markets reacted sharply; Brent crude surged more than 9% on Monday, posting its biggest single‑day dollar gain since early April and reaching the highest level since mid‑June. The price spike reflects investor anxiety over potential supply disruptions in a waterway that moves a significant share of global oil and gas daily.

Future Naval Measures

The U.S. Navy‑led Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC) confirmed that a maritime blockade of Iranian ports, oil terminals, and coastal zones will take effect on Tuesday. The blockade will apply to all vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports, irrespective of flag, while neutral transit to non‑Iranian destinations remains exempt. The International Maritime Organization has already voiced legal concerns about mandatory fees on international waterways, hinting at a possible diplomatic clash.