Iran attacks ships in Strait of Hormuz; oil rises, European gas near 4-yr high

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. These actions, confirmed by multiple maritime agencies and security sources, appear to be a deliberate campaign to disrupt oil flows and pressure the US and its allies, with Iranian officials claiming new tactics are being deployed. The exact methods of attack and specific damage to all vessels remain partially unconfirmed, but the strategic intent to raise the cost of passage and influence oil prices is clear.