Iran's efforts to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz through direct strikes on commercial vessels have intensified amid the broader U.S.-Iran conflict that escalated in late February 2026. Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces have conducted repeated missile, drone, and small-boat attacks on tankers and cargo ships, including multiple incidents in July that contributed to the collapse of a June memorandum of understanding aimed at safe passage. These actions, alongside proxy threats from Houthi forces in the Red Sea, reflect Tehran's strategy of disrupting maritime traffic to pressure adversaries and influence negotiations over sanctions relief and regional conflicts. U.S. retaliatory strikes, naval blockades, and diplomatic talks with Oman continue to shape compliance and risk levels for shipping. Recent statements from Iranian officials indicate the strait will remain restricted absent specific concessions, sustaining uncertainty for traders assessing further successful targeting in the coming weeks.