U.S. Restarts Blockade of Iranian Ships; Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz

The United States restarted its blockade of Iranian ships through the Strait of Hormuz on 12 July 2026. President Trump posted on social media that the measure applies only to Iranian ships and customers, with all other countries retaining fair and open use of the waterway.

Trump stated that the United States will charge 20 percent of cargo value to cover security costs and will be known as the Guardian of the Hormuz Strait.

He added that the process begins immediately. On 13 July 2026, Trump told Salem News that U.S. forces would strike Iranian targets hard that night and the following day. He described Iran as unreliable and said any nuclear weapon it acquired would be used within one day.

Trump confirmed to reporters that the strikes targeted Iranian capabilities related to the Strait of Hormuz. He also said contingency plans exist in case of an assassination attempt by Iran, though he later stated that Israeli intelligence had produced no immediate threat. On 10 July 2026, Trump formally notified Congress that the United States was once again at war with Iran.

The notification, contained in a letter, described strikes that began on 7 July 2026 as consistent with his responsibility to protect American interests. The notification triggers a 60-day period for military action without further congressional approval.