US Blockades Iranian Ports After Tanker Attacks in Hormuz

The Federal government of the United States has implemented a blockade of Iranian ports to restrict trade and oil exports in response to Iranian efforts to restrict maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation follows a series of attacks on Panamanian-flagged vessels on October 29 and 30, 2026, which contributed to Brent crude prices rising to $117.70 per barrel.

On October 30, the Royal Navy of Oman evacuated 25 crew members from the tanker RITI after it was set ablaze off the coast of Musandam. While Omani authorities did not specify the weapon used, Orbital Risk Intelligence reported the ship was struck by an Iranian missile. Separately, the tanker Louise 1 reported a limpet mine attack by a small boat northeast of Khasab, Oman, which caused an engine-room fire before the crew extinguished the flames and continued under their own power.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed that four tankers were halted or exploded after striking mines while using unauthorized routes and ignoring radio warnings. United States Central Command disputed these claims, asserting that primary transit routes have been cleared of mines. Admiral Brad Cooper stated that Iranian naval forces are no longer patrolling the waterway, while Iran continues to demand that all vessels coordinate passage with its armed forces.