LIVEUS isolation threat deepens Iran crisis as Hormuz blockade, oil shocks rippleLast updated: August 14, 2026 | 07:39Gulf News ReportDonald TrumpIran Israel conflictUS-Israel-Iran warStrait of HormuzNew US measures, Hormuz attacks fuel global push for tighter maritime securityGulf News ArchivesThe Strait of Hormuz crisis is deepening, with the IEA warning that reopening the waterway is increasingly urgent as global oil stockpiles fall. The UAE reported attacks on two tankers, while pollution concerns grow after oil washed ashore near Qeshm Island and a major spill spread off Oman. Meanwhile, the US is stepping up economic and military pressure on Iran, with Washington warning of unprecedented sanctions and Tehran disputing claims that shipping through the strait is operating normally. Stay with us for the latest.Highlights07:39 AM, 14 August 2026US says Hormuz oil flows higher than tracked
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said 8 million to 9 million barrels of oil are still moving through the Strait of Hormuz each day, disputing estimates that traffic has collapsed during the Iran conflict. He said many vessels are travelling under military escort with their tracking systems switched off, making commercial estimates incomplete. Wright said about 14 million to 15 million barrels of oil a day are currently leaving the Arabian Gulf region, compared with around 20 million before the conflict, with another six million barrels diverted through pipelines. He said Iran’s ability to disrupt shipping is declining as US escorts expand, but acknowledged petrol prices remain high at about $4 a gallon.06:41 AM, 14 August 2026 US vows Iran will face ‘unprecedented’ economic isolation US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatened to subject Iran to economic isolation "like the world has never seen before," adding that new measures are expected next week."It will be a combination of economic isolation, like the world has never seen before," Bessent told conservative television network Newsmax, adding that "the continued blockade in the Strait of Hormuz... will keep anything from going in or out of the Iranian ports."Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.05:55 AM, 14 August 2026Pakistan government hikes petrol, high-speed diesel prices
