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

Iran reported that seven oil tankers were hit or damaged in the Strait of Hormuz overnight, allegedly by attacks or naval mines, raising fears of a return to all-out war. The U.S. is responding by sending more military assets to the region. The claims, aired on Iranian state television and attributed to the Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, could not be independently confirmed by the AP. October has seen the most reported attacks on commercial shipping since March, and Iran reiterated threats to strike U.S. bases if the U.S. continues guiding ships through the strait. Tensions are heightened ahead of Israel's Oct. 27 election and U.S. midterms, with experts warning of a likely escalation. Iran says it remains open to diplomacy but is ready to defend itself, while mediators push for talks amid a wider conflict involving Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.