Iran Attacks Commercial Tankers in Strait of Hormuz; Trump Issues 'Finish the Job' Warning

Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated sharply on Tuesday following missile attacks on three commercial tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes included an attack on the Qatari LNG tanker Al-Rekayat, which suffered an engine-room fire. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry issued a rare and stern condemnation, labeling the incident a violation of international law and a direct threat to global energy supplies. The attacks occur as Tehran maintains a strategic blockade on a waterway responsible for 20% of the world's oil, forcing a 21% drop in recent vessel traffic as ships attempt to avoid mines and projectiles. Coinciding with the start of a NATO summit in Turkey, President Donald Trump reiterated his ultimatum to the Iranian leadership, stating the U.S. will either "make a deal or finish the job." The Trump administration has already authorized retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets following previous drone attacks on cargo vessels. Domestically, the conflict's expansion into maritime trade has driven U.S. gasoline prices to an average of $3.80 per gallon, marking a 27% spike over pre-conflict levels. Tehran remains defiant despite the mourning period for the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is "not moved" by U.S. threats and will not resume negotiations for a final deal under current conditions. Adding to the volatility, Iran reported a second strike on the civilian Bushehr nuclear plant, while the IRGC has vowed to target any regional locations hosting U.S. military forces.