Iran reports attacks on 7 tankers in Strait of Hormuz as US sends more forces

Iran reported that seven oil tankers were attacked or damaged in the Strait of Hormuz overnight, either by Iranian strikes or naval mines, raising fears of a return to all-out war. The U.S. is responding by sending additional military assets to the region. Tehran's state media cited the Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, which threatened to hit U.S. military bases if Washington continues guiding commercial ships through the strait. October has seen the most reported attacks on commercial shipping since March, according to a British military monitor. Iran says it remains open to diplomacy but is ready to defend itself, and has hinted at expanding targets to include infrastructure like undersea cables. The U.S. has deployed a third aircraft carrier and thousands of troops, while mediators seek formal talks.