U.S. Imposes Blockade and Tolls on Strait of Hormuz; Iran Declares It Closed

The United States restarted its blockade of Iranian ships through the Strait of Hormuz on July 13. President Trump posted on social media that the waterway is open and will remain open with or without Iran, and that the United States will be known as the Guardian of the Hormuz Strait while charging 20 percent of cargo value to cover security costs. Overnight on July 13-14, U.S.

Forces launched strikes targeting Iran's coastal defense systems and missile, drone, and maritime sites. As of that period, 50,000 U.S. troops were active in the Middle East. President Trump confirmed to reporters that the United States was attacking Iran's capabilities related to the Strait of Hormuz.

On July 10, President Trump sent a letter to Congress stating that U.S. strikes on Iran which began on July 7 represent military action to protect Americans and U.S. interests. The notification grants the administration a 60-day period to use military force in the Middle East without congressional approval.

On the same date, he formally notified lawmakers that the United States was once again at war with Iran. " Iranian missiles targeted a U.S. air base in Jordan in response. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a statement urging Jordanians to dismantle American bases in Jordan.

He also stated there may be Iranian drones in Cuba and that the U.S. would address the issue if confirmed, saying the United States is looking into whether Iran is storing drones there.