Tensions in the Middle East have escalated after Iran launched missile attacks on two oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to UAE authorities, one Indian crew member was killed while six other Indians were among eight people injured in the attack. The tankers caught fire before the blaze was brought under control.

In response, the United States carried out a five-hour military operation targeting Iranian military facilities in Bushehr, Chabahar, Jask, Konarak, Abu Musa and Bandar Abbas. US Central Command said missile sites, drone bases, coastal defense systems and naval facilities were hit with precision strikes.

President Donald Trump said the US would maintain control over security in the Strait of Hormuz and announced a proposed 20% security charge on cargo vessels using the route. He also claimed Iran's military capability had been significantly weakened.

Iran rejected the claims, insisting it would not surrender control over the Strait. The IRGC also claimed responsibility for attacking a US military base in Bahrain and said it had shot down a US MQ-1 drone, though these claims have not been officially confirmed by Washington.

The conflict has already affected global markets. Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has fallen to its lowest level in two months, while Brent crude prices climbed by more than 3%, raising concerns over global energy supplies.