One killed in Hormuz ship attack as Trump says strait is open and operating

• Ship transits through Hormuz averaged only 10 crossings over five days, the lowest since May 11, down from about 130 daily crossings before the war began
• Crude oil exports through the strait recovered to approximately 5 million barrels per day in July, up from 1.6 million bpd in May but still well below the pre-war level of 20 million bpd (one-fifth of global oil consumption)
• A memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran to reopen Hormuz expired on Monday without a final deal, with Iran's parliamentary speaker stating the strait will remain closed until U.S. commitments are met

Summary: Strait of Hormuz Ship Attack amid U.S.-Iran Tensions

Key Incident:

A vessel exiting the Strait of Hormuz was struck by a projectile, damaging its engine room and killing one crew member. Oman's Coast Guard is assisting the remaining crew, with no environmental damage reported. This marks the latest in a series of 65 attacks on commercial vessels since the U.S.-Iran conflict began February 28, resulting in at least 17 mariner deaths according to the International Maritime Organization.

Political Developments:

President Trump claimed the strait remains "open and operating" and all water mines cleared, though U.S. Central Command declined to confirm. The U.S. and Iran are not currently in talks after a memorandum of understanding signed June 17 expired Monday without a final deal. Iran's parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf stated Hormuz will stay closed until the U.S. meets MOU commitments.

Market Impact:

Ship traffic has plummeted dramatically. The five-day average stands at approximately 10 transits—the lowest since May 11—compared to 130 daily crossings pre-conflict. However, oil exports show gradual recovery under U.S. military escort along Oman's southern route:

• July: ~5 million barrels per day (bpd)
• June: ~4 million bpd
• May: 1.6 million bpd

Pre-war levels were approximately 20 million bpd of crude and products—representing one-fifth of global oil consumption. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright claims seven-day averages reached nearly 9 million bpd, suggesting some vessels transit covertly.

Ongoing Tensions:

The U.S. and Iran dispute control over shipping routes, with Iran demanding vessels use northern routes through its waters while the U.S. military protects ships along southern channels.