Iran is using its 1980s playbook, plus drones, to cripple global shipping

During the Tanker War of the 1980s, Iran used missiles, mines and speed boats to assert its control over the Strait of Hormuz. Back then, it took an extensive naval operation, including the destruction of command posts on offshore oil platforms by U.S. Marines, to break Tehran’s hold.

This time around, in addition to its earlier playbook, Iran has a legion of attack drones that are serving as a significant force multiplier. And the U.S. Navy has so far decided not to send warships to escort tankers and other vessels trapped in the Persian Gulf.

After nearly a month of relative quiet around the strait amid a U.S.-Iran ceasefire, an initiative from President Trump to protect ships appeared to spark new Iranian attacks on vessels Monday.

Read more at Wall Street Journal