Iranian officials report a shift in tactics to escalate attacks on maritime shipping, aiming to drive up global oil prices. According to two senior officials in Iran, this strategy is specifically timed to impact the market before the upcoming U.S. vote. The intent is to manipulate oil prices and potentially influence the political landscape. These actions represent an attempt to leverage geopolitical events for economic gain. The increased aggression targets vessels navigating key shipping lanes, raising concerns about regional stability and international trade. Further escalation could have significant consequences for global energy markets and security. Iran has not officially claimed responsibility for the attacks, but officials acknowledge the deliberate strategy.