UAE hits Iran for tanker attacks as US intensifies military action

International

THE United Arab Emirates (UAE) has condemned what is described as a brazen attack by Iran on two Emirati oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, killing an Indian crew member and injuring eight others.

The UAE Ministry of Defence said the missile strike violated international law and threatened regional security and the safety of one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.

In a report by BBC, the incident came as the United States launched another round of military strikes against Iran. US President Donald Trump announced that Washington would reinstate a naval blockade on Iranian ports and impose a 20% charge on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said the measure aims to secure the strategic waterway while maintaining pressure on Tehran, adding that a diplomatic agreement remains possible despite the escalating conflict.

Iran rejected the US announcement, insisting it would remain the “guardian” of the Strait of Hormuz and warning against foreign interference in the area.

Iranian state media also reported that Tehran launched retaliatory attacks on US military assets in Kuwait following the latest American strikes.

Meanwhile, the International Maritime Organization said there is no legal basis for charging mandatory transit fees on vessels using international straits.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global trade route, handling a significant portion of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The renewed tensions have raised concerns over disruptions to international shipping, higher energy prices, and the risk of a wider regional conflict, according to a report by BBC News (Angel Mae G. Antolijao, UP Cebu Comm Intern).