Iran Reports Seven Tanker Strikes in Strait of Hormuz, Warns US of Wider Response

Iran reported seven oil tankers struck in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, the largest single-day toll since the US-Israel war began, while Washington dismissed the claims as attempts to raise oil prices before US midterm elections. The IRGC said four tankers caught fire and three hit mines, though the report was unverified. Iran warned it could strike US bases in the region if Washington escorts more vessels, while a US Central Command spokesperson called the mine claims incorrect, saying 95 percent of ships pass through. The US military has increased escort operations in the waterway, which carried one-fifth of global oil before the conflict. Tehran claims control over the strait, while US officials say attacks show Iranian desperation under blockade, and polls indicate Americans want reduced war spending.