Trump Authorizes Strikes on Iran and Blockades Hormuz Strait

President Donald Trump has authorized a series of relentless military strikes against Iran to degrade its missile, drone, and naval capabilities. U.S. Central Command executed a third consecutive wave of strikes on July 13 and 14, 2026, destroying over 300 targets in one week, including communication networks, ammunition storage, and coastal surveillance. These operations followed alleged Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump reinstated a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz and declared the United States the guardian of the waterway. He demanded that allied Gulf nations reimburse the U.S. for these security costs, proposing a 20 percent tariff for safe passage. In response, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the strait closed and launched attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and facilities in Jordan, as well as tankers associated with the UAE. Simultaneously, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia launched strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen.

Beyond the Middle East, Trump warned of swift action after intelligence indicated Cuba acquired over 300 Shahed-136 attack drones from Russia and the Islamic Republic of Iran since 2023. These drones could potentially target Miami, New York, and the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base. The U.S. State Department has increased sanctions against Cuban entities while offering fuel and aid if the government privatizes its energy industry. This follows a May 14 warning delivered to the Cuban regime by CIA Director John Ratcliffe during a visit to Havana.