Iran threatens US bases as Trump claims Hormuz oil shipments exceed pre-war levels

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has threatened to attack US military bases across the Middle East if American warships continue escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC says it attacked four ships in the northern Gulf over alleged illegal oil transfers, while three others reportedly struck mines in the strait. Neither claim has been independently verified. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency says at least 14 vessels were attacked between October 8 and 17, with shipping traffic remaining 70 percent below pre-war levels. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump claims oil shipments through Hormuz have exceeded pre-war levels and that Washington has complete control of the waterway, despite figures showing a sharp decline in vessel crossings. Trump blames Iran for shipping disruptions as rising fuel, food and household costs fuel voter frustration ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections.

Al Jazeera's Mohammad Vall reports from Tehran, and Kimberly Halkett from the White House.

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