Iran's Attacks on Shipping in Strait of Hormuz Escalate Amid Ongoing Tensions

• •Iran has attacked at least 15 container ships in the Strait of Hormuz in 10 days.
• •CENTCOM reports 97% of vessels have successfully transited despite Iranian threats.
• •The attacks have contributed to rising oil prices, nearing $108 per barrel.

In the past 10 days, Iran has attacked at least 15 container ships in the Strait of Hormuz, employing drones, mines, and rocket-propelled grenades. The attacks have reportedly resulted in the sinking of a Singapore-flagged container ship, the GFS Pride, which was struck by an Iranian projectile. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) claims that the majority of these attacks have been unsuccessful, with 97% of vessels transiting the strait remaining unharmed. Despite the attacks, maritime traffic continues, with over 400 merchant ships reported to have sailed through the strait recently. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) asserts its right to target vessels without permission. The situation has led to increased oil prices, with Brent crude nearing $108 per barrel. The Iranian government has warned local fishers against looting the cargo from sunken vessels, claiming the goods belong to the state.