Strait of Hormuz Closed as US Strikes Iran Again

The United States has launched strikes against Iran amid the indefinite closure of the Strait of Hormuz, targeting 140 Iranian military sites. “Iran made a bad choice. They are now bearing the consequences,” said US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Tensions escalated after three oil tankers were attacked by Iran while attempting to transit international waters. The vessels were trying to pass through Omani waters on a route recommended by the US. Iran, however, insisted the only safe route was a separate passage through its own territorial waters. The incident was followed by retaliatory actions from both sides, including attacks by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on US and allied bases in the region. One of the targets was a US base in Jordan.

The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain also came under missile and drone attacks from Iran. The IRGC has vowed to respond forcefully to any US action resulting from the closure, including targeting new bases in the region. The latest wave of attacks raises questions about a peace deal between the two nations, with tensions escalating once more. US President Donald Trump stated that the Iranian attacks meant the ceasefire was over, whilst Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the US of violating the agreement. However, US leaders maintain that talks are continuing, and mediators are working to keep the process alive.