The United States has launched what it described as “powerful” military strikes against Iran in response to attacks on three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, marking another escalation in tensions despite an existing ceasefire.
According to US Central Command, the strikes were carried out on Tuesday after Iranian forces allegedly targeted commercial shipping in the strategic waterway.
In a statement posted on X, the military said the operation was intended to “impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping.”
US Central Command also accused Iran of violating the ceasefire that took effect on April 8, saying Tehran’s actions were “unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation” of the agreement.
Although the ceasefire has officially remained in place, sporadic violence has continued across the Gulf region. Incidents have included attacks on commercial vessels blamed on Iranian forces, alongside US military strikes against Iranian targets.
Tuesday’s operation marks the first US strike on Iran since a series of air raids conducted late last month, which Washington also said were launched in retaliation for attacks on commercial shipping.
The latest exchange raises fresh concerns over security in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil shipping routes, where any disruption could have significant implications for global energy supplies.
