Timeline of the Middle East Crisis & Strait of Hormuz Closure (2026)
IMAGE...Suspected attack on 2 OIL TANKERS neat Strait of Hormoz strokes fear of QAR The Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed as of May 2026 due to Iran’s blockade and the US naval counter-blockade, creating the most severe global energy crisis in decades. President Donald Trump has doubled down on sanctions, declared hostilities “terminated” to Congress, and insists Iran’s military is decimated, while rejecting Tehran’s peace proposals. Current Situation in the Strait of Hormuz Closure since Feb 28, 2026 : Iran blocked shipping after US–Israel strikes, laying mines and boarding vessels. Dual blockade : Iran restricts passage, while the US Navy blockades Iranian ports. Traffic has dropped to 2–4% of normal levels . Casualties & damage : At least 17 merchant ships damaged , 12 seafarers killed or missing, and 20,000 mariners stranded. Economic impact : Brent crude prices hover around $118–126 per barrel , fertilizer and helium markets disrupted, an...