20/07/2026 10:36 - Internacionales
According to CNN en Español, the renewed confrontation between the United States and Iran escalated alarmingly on July 20, 2026, approaching what analysts describe as a total war scenario. The deaths of two US military personnel in Jordan and another in northern Iraq mark a dangerous turning point.
Reports indicate that US President Donald Trump has threatened to expand the conflict if attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz continue. Meanwhile, Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Jamenei, insists on maintaining control over the maritime passage as a strategic lever.
To understand this situation, it is key to know that the Houthis are an Iranian-aligned rebel movement based in Yemen. As reported by Infobae, these rebels declared a naval blockade on Saudi Arabia. Iran reportedly pressured the group to close the Bab el-Mandeb strait—a crucial chokepoint at the entrance to the Red Sea connecting Europe and Asia—in retaliation for US attacks on Iranian energy infrastructure.
For context, the Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway between Iran and Oman that serves as a vital artery for the global economy. A massive portion of the world's petroleum transits through here. Analysts suggest that a prolonged closure could push crude oil prices above $100 per barrel, which would inevitably create global pressure to restart peace negotiations.
Despite the severe tension, the conflict could open the door to a new round of negotiations. Nations like Pakistan and Qatar, which previously mediated a meeting in Lucerne, Switzerland, in June 2026, are expected to intervene again. Although they maintained a low profile after a Qatari delegation visited Tehran on July 10, market pressures and the approaching US elections are likely to incentivize diplomatic efforts.
Sources such as Cadena 3 confirm the gravity of the attacks. Nevertheless, the international community remains hopeful that diplomacy will prevail over armed confrontation before the situation spirals out of control.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
