Iran has adopted new tactics to target ships in the Strait of Hormuz, deploying unarmed spotters to identify vessels in violation of its restrictions, according to two senior Iranian officials and a U.S. military official. The shift, confirmed by Reuters, follows a reported increase in attacks on ships transiting the waterway, which carries about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade.
New Strategy Focuses on Spotters and Increased Attacks
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has begun using small boats with unarmed spotters to locate potential targets, including U.S. naval vessels, a U.S. military official told Reuters on condition of anonymity. This marks a change from previous methods, which relied more heavily on radar capabilities that were partially destroyed in recent strikes. The officials did not provide specific details on the new tactics but stated that the strategy includes a change in the type and pace of attacks. One Iranian official said the shift began approximately 10 days ago and has led to an increase in attacks on vessels deemed in violation of Iran’s restrictions.
Strategic Goals: Oil Prices and U.S. Midterm Elections
The two Iranian officials, speaking to Reuters, said the decision to adopt the new strategy was made at the highest levels of Iran’s leadership and coordinated across the country’s ruling system. They stated that one of the primary aims is to frustrate efforts by the United States and its allies to reduce global oil prices. The officials also indicated that the tactics are intended to influence the outcome of the U.S. midterm elections on November 3, though they did not elaborate on how these attacks might directly impact voting behavior.
Impact on Shipping and Regional Stability
Since late February, when the U.S. and Israel launched strikes against Iran, Tehran has sought to exert control over the Strait of Hormuz. The restrictions have severely curtailed traffic through the waterway, driving up oil prices despite some continued transit. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, with disruptions having ripple effects on international markets. The U.S. military official confirmed that Iranian spotters were observed operating from a dhow—a traditional sailing vessel—last week, though no further details were provided.
Background: Escalation in the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz has been a flashpoint in recent months, with Iran repeatedly warning that it would respond to perceived provocations. The waterway, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, is a vital route for oil shipments. Prior to the recent escalation, it carried about a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade. The U.S. and its allies have accused Iran of destabilizing the region through its actions, while Iran has framed its restrictions as a response to external threats.
U.S. Response and Regional Tensions
The U.S. military has not publicly commented on the specifics of Iran’s new tactics but has confirmed the shift in Iranian behavior. The situation remains fluid, with both sides carefully monitoring developments. Regional analysts suggest that the timing of Iran’s actions—just weeks before the U.S. midterm elections—could be aimed at testing the resolve of the Trump administration and its allies while also signaling Iran’s capacity to disrupt global energy markets.