As Iran’s retaliatory attacks target energy shipments in the region, the conflict has recalled memories of the 1980s “tanker war”. With Iran and Iraq at war, both countries’ forces scattered mines across the Strait of Hormuz and in the Gulf. At least six tankers have been hit in the Gulf since the war began, forcing marine traffic through the strait to a virtual halt. The US has also sunk 17 Iranian ships. The inverse is true – if nobody can sell oil, then Iran can’t either,” said Miller.

Source: The Irish Times March 04, 2026 13:59 UTC