Two tankers were hit in the Strait of Hormuz overnight, and Iran declared that no further peace talks would take place unless U.S. President Donald Trump halts his repeated threats to resume the war. The attacks occurred as millions of Iranians continued week-long funeral processions for their slain supreme leader.
Attacks on Tankers
The Qatari liquefied natural gas tanker Al Rekayyat reported being struck and its engine room set on fire. Maritime security sources confirmed a Saudi crude oil tanker was also damaged. The captain of the Al Rekayyat issued a mayday call: “We are being hit by drone on port side, top of engine room. Status: engine room fire and full of smoke. Unable to assess further damage.” The crew were safe, but the ship was disabled without engines or steering.
No group claimed responsibility. News website Axios reported that Iran fired on the ships, but neither Washington nor Tehran commented directly.
Iran’s Stance on Peace Talks
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that under the interim ceasefire memorandum, negotiations on a final deal would “not commence if threats continue.” He urged the U.S. to “honor your signature” on X. Trump had threatened on Monday to resume bombing, saying, “We’re either going to make a deal or we’re going to finish the job.”
The war, launched by the U.S. and Israel over four months ago, aimed to destroy Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and end its ability to threaten neighbors. None of those objectives have been met, according to reports.
Funeral Processions for Khamenei
Iran’s leadership demonstrated firm control during mourning for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed along with family members on the war’s first day. Hundreds of thousands gathered in Qom and Tehran, carrying flags and banners comparing Khamenei to foundational Shi’ite martyrs. Chants vowed vengeance, and some placards read “KILL TRUMP”.
The leader’s body will be taken to Shi’ite holy cities in Iraq, then returned to Iran for burial in a medieval shrine. There has been no public sign of Khamenei’s son and successor, Mojtaba, believed to be disfigured by wounds from the same attack.
Impact on Oil Prices
Oil prices ticked up about 1% on Tuesday following the incidents in the Strait of Hormuz, after returning to pre-war levels since last month’s interim deal allowed ships to resume passage.
