Trump Weighs Iran Energy Strikes as Regional War Expands

A five-month conflict between the United States and Iran has escalated into a regional war following a series of missile and drone exchanges in late July 2026. Donald Trump authorized a heavy wave of strikes against Bandar Abbas, Kish Island, and Qeshm Island after Iran launched an unprecedented first-strike missile attack on U.S. forces. The U.S. Central Command also executed large-scale strikes against Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets on July 29 and maintains a blockade against Iranian shipping.

The conflict has expanded across the Middle East. Saudi Arabia joined U.S. offensive strikes against Iran-backed militias in Iraq, killing 20 members of the Popular Mobilization Forces, and formed a 14-nation Maritime Defense Alliance to protect the Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz. Simultaneously, Iran-backed Houthis blockaded Saudi-linked vessels in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and diverted oil tankers around Africa. Drone attacks have also struck gas vessels in Damietta, Egypt, and vital facilities in Kuwait.

Diplomatic efforts are intensifying as the U.S. considers targeting Iranian energy infrastructure. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman urged the U.S. president to avoid massive strikes to prevent a wider regional collapse. While Qatari mediators have attempted to negotiate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz with Iranian and U.S. officials, the U.S. Senate recently blocked an effort to force the president to end hostilities, leaving executive war powers intact.