Tehran's decision: The US and Iran exchange fire in the Strait of Hormuz, but "the war is not being restarted."

Friday, May 8, 2026

El Confidencial

US-Iran conflict escalates amid maritime crisis trapping thousands of seafarers in the Persian Gulf.

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[This is an automatically generated summary, for reference only]

Tensions escalated between the United States and Iran with renewed military exchanges following brief hopes for a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Both nations exchanged fire over civilian and military targets; Iran claimed US attacks on an Iranian oil tanker near Jask, prompting drone and missile strikes against US destroyers, while Washington targeted Iranian facilities in various ports as self-defense. Despite the fighting, US officials stated it was not a resumption of war but rather defensive action. The conflict’s impact extends beyond military exchanges, affecting global shipping; at least 22,500 mariners on over 1,550 merchant vessels are trapped in the Persian Gulf due to the dangerous situation in the Strait of Hormuz. Affected crews, including those from Spanish and Greek ships, report being stranded with provisions for months, while labor unions highlight issues such as contractual rights and intimidation by shipping companies.

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