Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) have claimed “complete control” of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil and gas supplies, as the regional conflict continues into its fifth day The IRGC warned that any vessels seeking to pass through the strait risk damage from missiles or stray drones, though it remains unclear if commercial shipping has been halted
The announcement came as the IRGC launched a new wave of more than 40 missiles at US and Israeli targets As part of this barrage, an Iranian missile struck an air base in Qatar that houses US military personnel Details on potential casualties or damage from the strike in Qatar have not yet been released. This follows a period where the rate of Iranian strikes on Israel had reportedly decreased, although the cause was unclear
The conflict, which reportedly followed earlier US and Israeli attacks against Iran, continues to expand Israel has launched its own new strikes on unspecified targets in Iran and Lebanon, according to reports The latest developments follow the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, for whom a state funeral is reportedly being prepared The United States has previously stated its navy is prepared to escort oil tankers through the Gulf shipping route
Mohsin Rana
