Iran has resumed military strikes in the Strait of Hormuz, targeting commercial vessels after a brief pause. On July 6, 2026, at least two missiles struck commercial ships transiting the strategic waterway, according to US officials cited by Axios. One vessel was hit near the Omani coast, and a second commercial ship was also struck. Both sustained significant damage, but no casualties have been reported.
Details of the Attack
Iran's state broadcaster IRIB reported on Tuesday that the Qatarti oil tanker "Al-Raqayat" was targeted after allegedly attempting to transit through the Omani route in the Strait of Hormuz with US Navy support, ignoring repeated Iranian warnings. IRIB reiterated Iran's longstanding position that "the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will not return to what it was before the US attack on Iran," adding that all transit through the Strait must follow routes announced by Iran, otherwise the security of vessels cannot be guaranteed.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said it received a report from a tanker traveling south near Oman along the Strait of Hormuz coast that had been struck by an unknown projectile, causing a fire. UKMTO issued warning 080-26 regarding the attack.
Broader Context and US Response
The strikes followed the expiry of a one-week agreement between the United States and Iran to halt strikes in the Strait of Hormuz. Axios reported that indirect talks between the US and Iran held in Doha, Qatar, last week ended without significant progress on navigation rights through the waterway. Washington is now likely to retaliate with strikes against Iranian targets, according to the report.
The latest incident is part of a series of tit-for-tat strikes between the US and Iran after earlier attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran maintains that the June 17 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) grants it sole responsibility for managing shipping through the vital waterway and has opposed a US-backed maritime corridor in Omani waters, arguing that it violates the agreement.
Impact on Global Shipping
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, with about 20% of the world's petroleum passing through it. The renewed strikes raise concerns about supply disruptions and increased insurance costs for vessels transiting the region. Shipping companies are advised to exercise caution and follow Iranian-announced routes to ensure safety.
