Tensions escalate as Washington responds to incident involving Singapore-flagged vessel, testing fragile ceasefire in the Gulf.
The United States has carried out military strikes on targets in Iran following a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to US officials and Iranian media reports.
The retaliatory action, announced by US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Friday, comes amid heightened tensions in the region and raises concerns about the stability of a recently brokered ceasefire between Washington and Tehran.
US Hits Iranian Targets After Ship Drone Attack:
CENTCOM said US forces struck Iranian missile and drone storage sites as well as coastal radar installations in response to what it described as an Iranian drone attack on the Singapore-flagged vessel M/V Ever Lovely on Thursday.
US President Donald Trump described the incident as a “foolish violation” of the ceasefire agreement, stating that Iran launched at least four one-way attack drones, one of which struck the ship’s upper deck. The vessel sustained damage but was able to continue its journey, according to Trump.
Iranian media, including Mehr news agency, reported that US strikes targeted areas near Sirik port in Hormozgan province but caused no significant damage. Tehran has not yet issued an official confirmation or denial of involvement in the ship attack.
Strategic waterway under pressure:
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil passes, has been a flashpoint in the ongoing US-Iran tensions. The latest incident occurred as efforts were underway to resume shipping and evacuate stranded sailors in the Gulf following months of conflict.
Analysts warn that repeated disruptions in the waterway could have severe implications for global energy markets and regional stability.
The strikes mark the latest escalation in a cycle of violence that has persisted despite diplomatic efforts to de-escalate. Both sides have accused the other of undermining ceasefire understandings reached in recent weeks.