The US has launched new airstrikes near the Strait of Hormuz following an surge in regional tensions. Tehran announced that the vital waterway is now sealed and threatened tankers using unapproved routes. Iranian officials described diplomacy as useless amidst the fighting. Retaliatory strikes have targeted Gulf states after the most significant US bombing campaign in months. Al Jazeera reports that US bombs hit Iranian cities again while the standoff intensifies . The New York Times notes that Iran explicitly fired on Gulf states during this latest surge in hostilities. The Guardian confirms this new wave of strikes began as diplomatic talks fell apart . Oil shipping routes face instant disruption as nations prepare for prolonged conflict in the area.