Middle East live: Tehran and US exchange strikes as blockade of Iranian ports resumes

Live

Middle East

Issued on: 15/07/2026 - 03:08Modified: 15/07/2026 - 04:11

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The United States launched strikes against Iran on Wednesday, with bombings reported in Bandar Abbas, on the island of Qeshm and in the city of Ahvaz. Tehran was quick to retaliate, with Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain all reporting attacks. These strike exchanges come alongside the resumption of the US naval blockade on Iranian ports. Follow our liveblog for the latest updates.

Yesterday's key developments:

• US President Donald Trump announced a reversal of his plan to charge a 20% toll on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz, saying he would instead seek investment deals with Gulf states.

• US forces reimposed a naval blockade to prevent ships from sailing to or from Iran's ports.

• The US military conducted strikes against Iran for a fourth day in response to Tehran's attacks on commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

(FRANCE 24 with Reuters, AP and AFP)