AFBytes Quarter Rundown — Sunday, July 12, 7:00 AM ET

Here are today's top stories from around the world. The Islamic Republic of Iran announced it would close the Strait of Hormuz following recent US strikes on Iranian positions. The Pentagon confirmed the attacks in response to Iranian actions against a container ship. This closure directly raises global oil shipping costs and can increase US gasoline and heating fuel prices. For America-first, control of critical energy transit routes affects US leverage in global trade and energy independence goals. For households, higher oil prices translate into elevated gasoline and home heating costs. For national security, the Strait remains a vital chokepoint for global energy supply and US strategic interests in the region. Iran declared it was again closing the Strait of Hormuz and conducted strikes on Gulf neighbors in response to U.S. military actions. Any sustained closure would immediately lift global oil prices and raise costs for U.S. drivers and manufacturers. For America-first, uninterrupted access to Gulf energy routes protects U.S. economic independence and trade balances. For households, elevated gasoline and diesel prices would increase weekly commuting and shipping costs for American families. For national security, control of the Strait remains central to U.S. deterrence posture and alliance commitments in the Gulf. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the indefinite closure of the Strait of Hormuz following recent military exchanges. A prolonged closure would cut roughly 20 percent of global oil trade and drive sharp increases in U.S. energy prices. For America-first, disruption of the Strait challenges U.S. ability to secure vital trade routes without allied support. For households, energy price spikes would raise costs for gasoline, heating, and goods transportation. For national security, the Strait remains a critical chokepoint whose closure threatens energy security and alliance commitments. That's the day from where we sit — thanks for spending part of it with us. Stay with us at AFBytes for what's next.