United States Launches Strikes on Iran Over Hormuz Shipping Attacks
The United States military has announced it has launched a series of strikes against Iran in response to Tehran’s alleged attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has condemned Washington’s move and stressed it will take measures deemed necessary to protect its national interests.
The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) stated its forces have begun a ‘series of powerful strikes’ against Iran. According to CENTCOM, the operation aims to impose a ‘heavy cost’ on Iran for the alleged targeting of merchant ships crewed by civilians in international waters.
In a statement on the platform X, CENTCOM said the US strikes were conducted in response to alleged Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Washington considers these actions unprovoked, dangerous, and a violation of ceasefire agreements.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that Tehran will take all necessary steps to safeguard its national interests and security.
Amid rising tensions, a number of explosions were reported in southern Iran. The Fars news agency reported black smoke was seen behind the fish market in Bandar Abbas after projectiles struck the fishing jetty and set several fishing boats ablaze.
Iranian media also reported explosions in several locations, including near Sirik, Qeshm Island, and Bandar Abbas. Iranian state television reported at least six explosions were heard on Qeshm Island, the largest island near the Strait of Hormuz, which holds a strategic position in monitoring the shipping lane.
Additionally, at least seven explosions were reported in the Sirik port area, also located on the strategic Strait of Hormuz route. Iranian state media reported projectiles struck the commercial jetty in Sirik, the fishing jetty in Ziyarat village, and triggered several explosions in the port area.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is reported to have heated up again after previously seeing only limited confrontation following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) regarding the management of the area.