US Strikes Iran 12th Night; Strait of Hormuz Crisis Escalates
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Security
Why in news
The US has conducted a 12th night of strikes on Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, with President Trump threatening to bomb a bridge or power plant for each Iranian attack on ships. Oil prices have surged, and Iran has vowed an 'eye for an eye' response. The crisis threatens global economic disruption and has put Jordan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia on alert.
Background
The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic waterway through which a fifth of the world's traded oil and gas passed during peacetime. The current conflict began with US strikes to degrade Iran's ability to threaten shipping, leading to a closure of the strait and escalating military exchanges.
Key facts
US conducted 12th night of strikes on Iran, targeting civilian infrastructure.
President Trump threatened to destroy one bridge or power plant for each Iranian attack on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's foreign minister Araghchi adopted an 'eye for an eye' defense doctrine.
Iran launched a missile attack on a Jordanian city; alerts issued in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
Iran targeted energy infrastructure and desalination plants in neighboring Gulf countries.
Strait of Hormuz closure has jolted world economy; oil prices rose to over $93 a barrel.
US Defense Secretary estimated war cost at $37.5 billion so far.
Iran-backed Houthi rebels threaten Saudi shipping in the Red Sea.
International law generally prohibits attacks on civilian infrastructure unless used for military purposes.
Iran claims right to manage traffic and charge fees in the strait, which was toll-free before the war.
Prelims pointers
- Strait of Hormuz
- Brent crude oil benchmark
- US Central Command
- Iran's foreign minister: Seyed Abbas Araghchi
- Iran's parliament speaker: Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf
- Dover Air Force Base
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
Mains angles
- Discuss the geopolitical and economic implications of the Strait of Hormuz crisis on global energy security.
- Critically examine the legality of targeting civilian infrastructure under international law in armed conflicts.
- Analyze the impact of US-Iran tensions on regional stability in the Middle East, including Gulf countries and Yemen.