Iran missile strikes sink two merchant ships in Strait of Hormuz

Iranian forces have significantly escalated maritime attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, targeting at least 18 vessels in the first 12 days of October, including a record six ships on October 13. This surge in aggression, which includes missile strikes and sea mine incidents, has led to a sharp decline in Strait of Hormuz traffic and disrupted global crude and LNG exports. The attacks appear to be a deliberate campaign to influence oil prices ahead of US midterm elections and pressure US allies, with the risk of broader maritime conflict rising.