09/07/2026 03:04 - Internacionales
The conflict between the United States and Iran, which reignited in late February 2026, has entered a new phase of tension. On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, the United States launched attacks against approximately 90 Iranian military targets, as reported by US military officials.
This offensive follows the decision by US President Donald Trump to declare the ceasefire—signed on June 17, 2026—as terminated. The president justified the action as retaliation for the Iranian bombing of commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz that occurred on Tuesday, July 7. In response to the US strikes, Iran attacked bases in Kuwait and Bahrain.
The renewed tensions had an immediate effect on energy markets. The price of Brent crude—the European benchmark oil—experienced a sharp 5.21% increase on Wednesday, closing at $78.02. This Thursday, July 9, the September delivery barrel advanced by 1.06%, nearing $78.87 in the London futures market.
Tehran aims to control the strategic Strait of Hormuz by charging tolls, generating uncertainty in international trade. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), around 6,000 sailors are currently blocked in the Gulf due to the resumption of hostilities.
Faced with this concerning situation, the international community is advocating for dialogue. The Secretary-General of the UN, António Guterres, urged immediate de-escalation measures and the resumption of talks.
Countries like Pakistan and Qatar also called for de-escalation. It was reported that Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araqchi, spoke by phone with the Qatari Prime Minister to highlight the importance of diplomatic means to resolve regional issues, offering a ray of hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
