Reuters: Iran changes its tactics and increases attacks on commercial shipping around the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to keep oil prices high and increase pressure on Washington ahead of midterm elections in the United States.

Reuters: Iran changes its tactics and increases attacks on commercial shipping around the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to keep oil prices high and increase pressure on Washington ahead of midterm elections in the United States.

American officials report that the Revolutionary Guards have begun using unarmed boats to monitor potential targets following damage to the country's missile capabilities, and have expanded operations beyond the Strait to the Oman Gulf and waters near Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

Iranian officials also warned that Tehran is moving toward a complete closure of the Strait to vessels violating its restrictions, further raising concerns about global oil and gas supply.