BlockBeats News, August 15th. The situation in the Middle East continues to escalate, with the Strait of Hormuz becoming the focal point of US-Iran tensions. US President Trump stated that there will be a "severe economic impact" on Iran and described the blockade on Iran as "unstoppable," calling it "an iron wall." Trump also mentioned that the US will soon declare the Strait of Hormuz as "US territory."

The White House stated that the US still has more means to pressure Iran and can further weaken the Iranian economy. US Treasury Secretary Mnuchin also mentioned that the US will take "unprecedented" measures against Iran.

The US Central Command stated that as of August 14th, the US military had forced 62 merchant ships to change course, rendered 3 ships inoperable, boarded and inspected 2 ships to ensure compliance with relevant blockade regulations. US Energy Secretary Wright stated that around 8 to 9 million barrels of oil pass through the Strait of Hormuz daily, and the US is coordinating with relevant vessels, enhancing escort and transportation capabilities.

Iran responded with a strong stance. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that the opening or closing of the Strait of Hormuz can only be decided by Iran and will not be affected by US threats or military displays. Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif mentioned that a decision has not been made yet on whether to resume negotiations with the US, with Qatar and Pakistan assisting in exchanging information between both sides, but this does not imply that the US and Iran have entered negotiations.

Meanwhile, conflicts in the region continue to escalate. The Yemeni government forces claimed that the Houthi forces launched 6 ballistic missiles towards Mocha Port; the Saba News Agency controlled by Houthi forces reported that they used drones to attack a facility in Saudi Aramco in Najran Province in southern Saudi Arabia.

Additionally, the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) continues to monitor airspace violations over Lebanese territory. Canada announced sanctions against Iranian individuals obstructing the right of passage in and around the Strait of Hormuz.

The US Central Command denied pushing for a new round of military strikes against Iran. Earlier reports from US media mentioned that the US military lost at least 45 "Reaper" drones in actions against Iran, with a total value exceeding $1.3 billion.

The market's attention has shifted to the future direction of the Strait of Hormuz. If the blockade continues or the conflict escalates, the risks of global energy transportation and oil price fluctuations may further increase.