Tankers hit in Hormuz as Iran keeps up pressure after US vote
USO•Iran said three more tankers were damaged in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday, while at least five vessels have reported incidents since Sunday. The attacks continued as the United States and Iran reviewed proposals to bridge differences, and oil prices remained more than $20 a barrel below last week.
1. Tankers report incidents
Iran reported that three more tankers were damaged in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday. At least five vessels have reported incidents since Sunday, close to the pace of October, when UKMTO said 35 vessels were hit, its highest monthly total of the war. UKMTO also reported that a vessel was struck by two unidentified projectiles late Wednesday.
2. Political fallout in Washington
Vice President JD Vance said the war was to blame for Republican losses in the US midterm elections. President Donald Trump defended launching the war, saying it was important to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. Two sources said they believed Trump was still likely to resume hostilities.
3. Mediation continues
Iranian officials have met with Qatari mediators since last week to discuss proposals to end hostilities, but neither side has announced a breakthrough. Qatar said the United States and Iran were reviewing proposals to bridge differences. Talks have focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a US blockade on Iranian ports, sanctions and Tehran's nuclear programme.
