The United Arab Emirates condemned Iran for a "brazen" attack on two tankers in the Strait of Hormuz on July 13, 2026, which resulted in one death and eight injuries. President Donald Trump announced a 20% charge as part of a new blockade on the waterway, intensifying tensions between the two nations.
Details of the Attacks on Tankers
The UAE Ministry of Defence reported that Iranian cruise missiles targeted the national tankers, leading to the death of an Indian crew member and serious injuries to four others. Of the injured, six were Indian and two were Ukrainian. The Ministry stated, "This brazen attack constitutes a serious violation and a clear breach of international law, threatening the security and stability of the region."
Following the strikes, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) confirmed their actions, claiming the tankers ignored warnings and attempted to navigate through a mined route. They stated, "Co-operation with the aggressor enemy will only lead to regret, damage, and delays in opening the Strait."
US Response and Military Actions
In response to the escalating conflict, President Trump directed military strikes against Iranian targets, including sites in Bushehr, Chah Bahar, and Bandar Abbas. He emphasized that the US would be the "GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT" and would reinstate a naval blockade of Iranian ports starting from July 14. Trump stated, "We’re knocking out all of their offensive capability. And we’re controlling the Strait."
