US Strikes Iranian Oil Tankers in Strait of Hormuz Amid Escalating Tensions

The United States has reportedly struck and disabled two Iranian oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, following alleged unprovoked attempts by Iran to attack US warships. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy has warned of 'severe retaliation' against US military bases and naval assets if further attacks on Iranian vessels occur. This escalation comes amidst a US naval blockade in the critical shipping corridor, which has significantly disrupted global trade and energy markets, with thousands of commercial vessels immobilized.