Washington: The United States carried out a fresh series of military strikes against Iranian targets early Wednesday, saying the operation was a response to recent attacks on commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The action marks another escalation despite an existing ceasefire arrangement between Washington and Tehran.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces targeted more than 80 locations linked to Iran’s military infrastructure. Officials said the operation focused on coastal defence systems, missile launch capabilities, surveillance installations, command centres and dozens of boats allegedly operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
CENTCOM stated that the strikes were aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to threaten maritime traffic through the strategic waterway, one of the world’s busiest energy corridors.
Reports from Iranian media said loud explosions were heard in Sirik, Bandar Abbas and on Qeshm Island, though authorities in Tehran had not immediately released details about the extent of the damage or possible casualties.
US blames Iran for attacks on merchant ships
Washington alleged that Iranian forces were responsible for recent attacks on three commercial tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The vessels identified by US officials included the Marshall Islands-flagged MT Al Rekayyat, the Saudi Arabia-flagged MT Wedyan, and the Liberian-registered MT Cyprus Prosperity.
Calling the incidents a threat to international navigation, CENTCOM said the attacks violated the existing ceasefire understanding and endangered global maritime trade.
US military officials also warned that any further attempts to target civilian shipping would invite additional action.
Ceasefire under renewed strain
Although both countries remain officially committed to the ceasefire framework agreed after months of conflict, the latest developments have cast fresh doubt over its future.
Diplomatic efforts aimed at negotiating a broader political agreement have slowed as military exchanges continue to test the limits of the truce. Analysts believe the latest strikes could complicate ongoing discussions over regional security and Iran’s nuclear programme.
Domestic criticism grows on both sides
The fragile peace process is also facing political pressure within both countries.
In Iran, hardline groups have criticised senior government negotiators involved in talks with Washington, accusing them of making excessive concessions. Demonstrations have reportedly called for action against key political figures associated with the negotiations.
In the United States, President Donald Trump has also faced criticism from sections of the Republican Party, with some lawmakers questioning the ceasefire agreement and urging a tougher stance against Tehran.
With military operations resuming alongside stalled diplomacy, concerns are growing that the region could once again move toward a broader confrontation if tensions continue to escalate.
