Iran using new tactics to target ships in Strait of Hormuz

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 14 Oct, 02:32 · Archive

Iran is deploying new tactics against ships in the Strait of Hormuz to keep oil prices high and influence US midterm elections.

Iran is deploying new tactics to target ships in the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to keep oil prices high and influence the US midterm elections, according to two senior Iranian officials. Tehran has restricted passage through the waterway since US and Israel launched strikes against Iran on 28 February, seeking leverage over Washington. The waterway carried about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade before the conflict.

Iranian officials said Iran started using different offensive tactics against vessels it considered in violation of its restrictions about 10 days ago, leading to an increased number of attacks. The new strategy includes changes in both the type and pace of attacks. One official stated: 'The aim is to frustrate efforts by the United States and its allies to bring down global oil prices.' The decision to adopt the new strategy was taken at the highest levels of Iran's leadership and was fully coordinated across the country's ruling system.

A US military official, speaking anonymously, confirmed Iran had changed tactics significantly. After US strikes destroyed much of Iran's radar capabilities, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has started using unarmed spotters in small boats to identify potential targets, including US naval vessels.

How it is being reported

• Iran shifting tactics before US midterms: officialsIran is using a new strategy to target ships in and beyond the Strait of Hormuz, officials say.Perth Now · 14 Oct, 01:55
• Iran shifting tactics before US midterms: officialsIran is using a new strategy to target ships in and beyond the Strait of Hormuz, officials say.The West Australian · 14 Oct, 01:55

In this story: Iran · United States · Strait of Hormuz · Israel · Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps

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