On Tuesday, July 14th, 2026, the United States and Iran intensified their conflict with new military strikes, effectively ending the June 17 memorandum of understanding aimed at resolving their dispute. The US reportedly targeted Iran’s southwestern Khuzestan province, including the city of Abadan, home to the Middle East's oldest oil refinery, and the port city of Mahshahr. Additionally, a US projectile struck Qeshm Island, according to local authorities.

In response, Iran launched attacks on US allies and shipping in the Gulf, increasing insecurity in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This area is critical for global oil transit, and the US has pledged to act as its "guardian" while resuming a blockade of Iranian ports.

Al Jazeera’s Resul Serdar, reporting from Tehran, described the situation as a "low-intensity war that is becoming persistent," warning of the potential for escalation into full-scale war. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera’s Victoria Gatenby reported from Doha that the past 24 hours have been difficult for Gulf countries and Jordan due to ongoing Iranian attacks.

In a related development, former US President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social network that he would replace the 20% United States Reimbursement Fee with trade and investment deals from various Gulf States into the United States.

These events mark a significant deterioration in US-Iran relations and raise concerns over regional stability and global energy markets.

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