US launches new attacks on Iran as battle for control over Hormuz intensifies; Trump reverses tolling plan

The United States has significantly intensified its military operations against Iran, launching multiple waves of strikes for several consecutive nights. These attacks are reportedly aimed at diminishing Iran's military capacity to target commercial shipping in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Alongside these strikes, the U.S. has reinstated a naval blockade on Iranian ports, escalating the ongoing conflict which has seen Iran respond with its own retaliatory actions against commercial vessels and U.S. allied nations in the region.

Amidst these heightened tensions, President Donald Trump reversed his earlier proposal to impose a 20% toll on commercial cargo transiting the Strait of Hormuz. This plan, which had drawn criticism for potentially violating international law and causing economic disruption, was reportedly abandoned following discussions with leaders in the Middle East. Instead, Trump indicated that trade and investment deals with Gulf states would serve as compensation for U.S. security efforts in the waterway.

The escalating hostilities have led to Iran threatening to halt all Middle Eastern energy exports and temporarily closing the Strait of Hormuz in response to the U.S. blockade. The renewed conflict has caused global oil prices to rise and sparked international concern over the potential for a broader regional war and significant economic repercussions.