U.S. and Iran Resume Direct Hostilities; Trump Imposes Blockade and Strait Transit Toll

Direct hostilities between the United States and Iran have formally resumed following the collapse of a June ceasefire agreement. President Trump notified Congress that U.S. forces engaged in combat operations starting July 7, legally triggering a 60-day authorization window for continued military action. Concurrent with this notification, the U.S. Navy has begun enforcing a total maritime blockade of Iranian ports and oil terminals. In a significant shift in maritime policy, President Trump declared the U.S. the 'Guardian of the Hormuz Strait' and announced a 20% transit toll on all cargo passing through the waterway to recoup security costs, a move the United Nations has already characterized as illegal. On the ground, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) launched its third consecutive night of nighttime airstrikes, targeting dozens of Iranian military installations including air-defense systems, drone capabilities, and naval infrastructure across cities like Bandar Abbas and Abadan. Over 300 targets have been degraded in the last 72 hours. Iran has responded by launching ballistic missiles at U.S. positions in southern Iran, causing reported casualties and facility damage. The escalation has sent shockwaves through global markets, driving oil prices higher and causing supply chain disruptions, including a reported halt of helium exports by China. The conflict is also expanding regionally, with Houthi forces launching attacks on Saudi Arabia and Iran targeting various states across the Gulf.