The president has accused Tehran of manipulating the narrative around shipping. CBS News's live coverage of the Iran war reports that President Trump said Iran was trying to drive up oil prices before the midterms by lying about ships hitting mines or being struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz. I have only seen the headline and summary, and I cannot verify either side's claims.
The claim contrasts with earlier reports. Euronews reported earlier this week that Iran struck two commercial vessels, one off Qatar and one off Fujairah, and a maritime risk firm warned that vessels still face indiscriminate attacks, even if they switch off their trackers. A ship struck by a projectile near Qeshm Island was also shown awaiting removal. Which incidents are real, which are disputed and which are exaggerated is difficult for outsiders to judge.
Oil prices are sensitive to news about the Strait of Hormuz, which carries a large share of the world's oil and gas. Reports of attacks can push prices up even before any supply is lost, and the war has already raised fuel costs in countries such as the United Kingdom, where inflation has hit its highest in almost a year. If Trump is right that claims are being made up, the price effect could be temporary, but if the attacks are real, supply risks remain.
For readers, the sensible approach is to look for independent confirmation, such as shipping data, insurers' statements and reports from navies, and to be wary of claims that serve a political purpose. Fuel prices are affecting households everywhere, including in Malaysia, where the Prime Minister has said aid can be sustained despite higher oil prices. Watch for any evidence presented by the U.S. or Iran and for oil price movements in the coming days.
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