TEHRAN: Tensions in the Middle East escalated further after around 10 commercial vessels were attacked in or near the Strait of Hormuz, while Mojtaba Khamenei was selected as Iran’s new Supreme Leader following the death of his father Ali Khamenei.
The appointment was confirmed by Iran’s Assembly of Experts, which chose the 56-year-old cleric to lead the country.
Shipping Attacks in Strait of Hormuz
According to maritime monitoring agencies, attacks on vessels have nearly halted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a corridor through which about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas normally passes.
The International Maritime Organization reported nine confirmed attacks within one week, leaving at least seven people dead.
Data from shipping analytics platforms indicates tanker traffic in the region has dropped by about 90% since the conflict intensified.
Iran and Israel Exchange Attacks
Following Mojtaba Khamenei’s appointment, Iran launched a new wave of missile strikes toward Israel, according to Iranian state media.
Israel responded by carrying out additional airstrikes targeting Iranian government and military infrastructure.
Gulf Region Hit by New Attacks
Several Gulf countries also reported new attacks and security incidents:
Bahrain: A drone strike in Sitra injured 32 civilians, including several children.
Qatar: Explosions were heard in the capital Doha, with authorities confirming a missile interception.
Saudi Arabia: Civil defence reported two deaths and 12 injuries from a projectile attack.
UAE: Air defence systems responded to missile threats overnight.
Hezbollah Claims Helicopter Downing
In Lebanon, the Iran-backed group Hezbollah claimed it shot down an Israeli helicopter during fighting near the Syrian border. Israel has not confirmed the claim.
US Casualties Rise
The United States Armed Forces confirmed the death of its seventh service member since the war began. The soldier died from injuries sustained during an earlier attack in Saudi Arabia.
Global Concern and Diplomatic Efforts
Amid escalating violence, Emmanuel Macron spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, urging Tehran to halt strikes across the region.
The conversation marked the first known contact between a Western leader and Iran’s president since the conflict began.
Analysts warn that continued attacks on shipping routes and energy infrastructure could severely disrupt global oil supplies and international trade.
