As US airstrikes on Iranian military facilities entered their third night, regional tensions quickly spilled over into neighboring Gulf states. Tehran has shifted its retaliation targets to commercial shipping within the Strait of Hormuz, causing a sharp rise in security risks for this critical energy corridor. The escalation has put global energy markets on edge, leading to immediate fluctuations in crude oil prices.

The US military confirmed the completion of the latest round of strikes, which lasted approximately five hours. Targets included Iranian coastal defense systems, missile facilities, and drone infrastructure, aiming to degrade capabilities targeted at commercial shipping. This operation followed the US announcement regarding the resumption of a blockade on the strait and plans to impose tolls. In response, Iran launched targeted attacks; two UAE tankers were hit by cruise missiles in the southern channel of the strait, resulting in casualties and material damage. The UAE Defense Department stated it is on highest alert and will take necessary measures to counter attempts to destabilize the region. Meanwhile, Bahrain, home to the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, issued missile alerts.

Shipping monitoring data indicates that transit efficiency through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed significantly due to the situation. The number of vessels confirmed passing through the strait has dropped sharply compared to the previous week, with over half of the shipping capacity affected. Routing is shifting towards more defensive patterns, with some vessels avoiding internationally authorized channels in favor of higher-risk routes. Industry analysts note that as risk premiums rise, many shipowners and charterers have paused decisions regarding transit through the waterway.

This escalation marks the de facto collapse of the previously signed temporary ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, which was intended to ensure the openness of the strait and pause hostilities. Markets reacted sensitively, with both Brent crude and US WTI crude prices rising significantly. Brent surpassed $85 per barrel, while WTI climbed to near $80. Investors are concerned that continued turbulence in this key channel, which carries a large portion of global oil and gas shipments, will bring greater uncertainty to commercial shipping.