US President Donald Trump convened a Cabinet meeting at Camp David on Friday after Iran claimed responsibility for striking two oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz under US military escort, marking another escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

According to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the two tankers were halted after allegedly attempting to pass through what Tehran described as an "undeclared route" under American aerial protection.

The Iranian military claimed that four additional oil tankers reversed course following the attack.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Flashpoint

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest energy shipping routes, has witnessed severe disruptions since the outbreak of hostilities involving the United States, Israel and Iran.

Iran and the United States continue to dispute the designated shipping corridors through the strategic waterway. Tehran has maintained that vessels must comply with its navigation rules, while Washington has continued to escort commercial shipping through the region.

The prolonged tensions have significantly affected global energy markets, with crude oil prices rising above $90 per barrel following recent military exchanges between Washington and Tehran.

Regional Fighting Continues

Military activity continued across the region on Friday.

Kuwait's Defence Ministry said its air defence systems intercepted Iranian drones targeting military and strategic facilities, adding that there were no reported casualties.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military carried out a large-scale explosion near the historic Beaufort Castle in southern Lebanon, stating that it targeted Hezbollah tunnel networks and military infrastructure.

Lebanese officials accused Israel of violating the existing ceasefire, while Israel maintained that the operation was necessary to safeguard communities along its northern border.

Camp David Meeting Focuses on Iran Conflict

The emergency Cabinet meeting at Camp David comes as the Trump administration evaluates its next steps in the conflict, which has continued for several months despite earlier expectations of a shorter military campaign.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the retreat would provide Cabinet members an opportunity to review major national security issues, with the Iran conflict expected to dominate discussions.

Officials are also expected to assess the economic impact of the conflict, particularly rising fuel prices and broader inflationary pressures affecting American consumers.

Political Pressure Mounts

The prolonged military campaign has become an increasingly contentious issue in US domestic politics.

A recent resolution in the US Senate seeking to express disapproval of the ongoing military operation narrowly failed, reflecting growing divisions in Congress over the administration's strategy.

At the same time, higher global oil prices have boosted earnings for major energy companies, while increasing fuel costs continue to affect households and businesses.

Political analysts suggest the economic consequences of the conflict could become a key issue ahead of the upcoming US midterm elections, as voters weigh concerns over inflation, energy prices and foreign policy.

With military operations continuing across multiple fronts and diplomatic efforts showing little progress, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most closely watched flashpoints in global geopolitics.