Washington/Tehran: Fresh tensions have erupted between the United States and Iran after American forces reportedly carried out strikes near Iran’s Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas following attacks on US naval assets in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest confrontation has raised concerns over the stability of the fragile ceasefire that has remained in place since April.
According to the US Central Command, Iranian drones, missiles and small attack boats targeted three American Navy vessels operating near the strategic waterway on Thursday. The US military stated that all incoming threats were intercepted and no damage was caused to its ships. In response, American forces launched what officials described as “defensive strikes” against military sites allegedly linked to the attacks.
US President Donald Trump later confirmed the action while speaking to reporters in Washington, saying the American military had responded forcefully after Iran’s alleged aggression. Despite the exchange of fire, Trump maintained that the ceasefire agreement between the two countries was still technically intact.
Iranian media, however, reported clashes involving Iranian forces and what it referred to only as “enemy elements” near Qeshm Island, located close to the Strait of Hormuz. Reports also mentioned explosions and air defence activity near Bandar Abbas and parts of western Tehran, though Iranian authorities did not officially confirm whether the incidents were linked to US strikes.
The developments come at a time when international concern is growing over shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. A maritime intelligence report claimed Iran has established a new authority to regulate and tax vessels passing through the strait, further intensifying tensions with Western powers.
Shipping firms and global markets remain on edge as hundreds of commercial vessels continue to face delays in the Gulf region. Analysts warn that any prolonged instability in the area could sharply affect global oil supplies and fuel prices.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to end the conflict are continuing through Pakistan-mediated negotiations. Iranian officials said Tehran is still reviewing the latest American proposals and has not yet issued a formal response.
Pakistan’s leadership has expressed hope for a breakthrough, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stating that Islamabad remains engaged with both Washington and Tehran to prevent further escalation and preserve the ceasefire.
At the same time, the United States and its Gulf allies are pushing for stronger international pressure on Iran regarding navigation restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz. However, divisions at the United Nations Security Council continue to complicate diplomatic efforts, especially after previous resolutions faced opposition from Russia and China.
The latest military exchange has once again highlighted the uncertainty surrounding the region, with fears growing that even a limited confrontation could spiral into a wider conflict affecting global trade and energy security.
