US sanctions on Iran called economic terrorism; Pentagon open to Hormuz strikes

Iran has condemned new US sanctions as "economic terrorism" in a letter to the UN, while the Pentagon refuses to rule out military strikes near the Strait of Hormuz. Tensions are escalating over Washington's "Operation Economic Outcast" campaign. A tanker was hit by an unidentified projectile in the Strait of Hormuz, causing a fire that was extinguished, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said sanctions target civilians by limiting access to food, medicine, and energy. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said kinetic attacks are not excluded in the strait, claiming Tehran cannot withstand economic pressure. Asian allies worry about US ammunition shortages from Middle East operations, potentially delaying deliveries to Taiwan and Japan.