WASHINGTON: The tensions between the United States, Israel and Iran continue to intensify with no signs of diplomatic progress, as the military operations entered their 11th consecutive night; US President Donald Trump issued one of his strongest warnings yet to Tehran, declaring that any attack on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz would trigger immediate strikes on Iran’s critical infrastructure. The latest developments come as global energy markets remain on edge and fears of a wider regional conflict continue to grow.
US-Israel-Iran War Latest News: Why did Trump issue a fresh warning to Iran?
President Donald Trump said the United States would respond forcefully if Iran targeted vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important shipping routes. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that every attack on a ship, whether by missile, drone, rocket or any other weapon, would be met with US strikes on an Iranian bridge or power plant, including facilities near Tehran. The warning underscores Washington’s determination to keep the waterway open amid escalating hostilities.
“From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT, including those located next to, or in, the Capital City of Tehran,” he wrote on Truth Social.
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) July 22, 2026
What is happening in the Strait of Hormuz?
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of the ongoing dispute between Washington and Tehran. Around one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies pass through the narrow waterway, making any disruption a major concern for global markets. Since tensions escalated earlier this year, uncertainty over shipping has contributed to volatility in energy prices. Brent crude briefly climbed to around $94 per barrel, reflecting growing fears that the conflict could further disrupt global supplies.
How has the conflict affected Iran and the region?
Iran says the renewed fighting has caused significant casualties. According to Iranian state media, at least 53 people, including women and children, have been killed, while nearly 600 others have been injured during the past 11 days. In response to US military operations, Iran has launched multiple drone and missile attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and other Gulf countries that host American military installations, widening concerns that the conflict could spread across the region.
US-Israel-Iran War Latest News: What could happen next?
Washington and Tehran are on clearly opposite sides of this divide, despite some hints at diplomatic conversations. Washington is thought to be considering more military action, potentially a raid on an underground nuclear facility in Pickaxe Mountain. The current approach is clearly one of military pressure, as Trump said from the Oval Office that “there is no interest in meeting” with Tehran. As diplomatic talks languish and the military operations continue, tensions could spiral in the Middle East.
