US Launches Airstrikes On Iran After Strait Of Hormuz Vessel Attack

The United States has launched airstrikes against Iranian military assets following an alleged drone strike on the Singapore-flagged cargo vessel ‘M/V Ever Lovely’ in the Strait of Hormuz.

The action represents Washington’s first direct military intervention since the ceasefire with Iran was announced earlier this week.

US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the operation targeted missile and drone storage facilities, along with coastal radar positions in Iran.

According to the command, the response followed the June 25 drone attack on the merchant vessel as it sailed near the Omani coastline.

CENTCOM maintained that the assault on the commercial ship breached the ceasefire agreement and threatened the security of international shipping through one of the world’s most important maritime trade routes.

Before the operation, US President Donald Trump criticised Iran’s actions and indicated that a response was imminent.

In a social media post, Trump claimed Iran launched four one-way attack drones at ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz. He said American forces intercepted three drones, while the fourth struck the ‘M/V Ever Lovely’, describing the incident as a direct breach of the ceasefire.

Iran did not immediately claim responsibility for the attack on the cargo vessel.

Iran Responds

Iranian state media reported that projectiles struck a telecommunications tower in the port city of Sirik after the American strikes.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that it would respond strongly to any further military action.

Iranian media also claimed that the country’s forces disrupted part of the US operation and forced American troops to retreat, although US officials did not confirm the claim.

US officials said the operation lasted about 90 minutes and described it as a limited retaliatory action rather than the start of a wider military campaign.

The latest exchange has raised fresh concerns about the future of the recently agreed ceasefire, which aims to end hostilities, restore safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, and facilitate negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and other unresolved issues.

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