U.S. launches attacks against Iran after Strait of Hormuz tensions

United States Central Command forces initiated a series of attacks on Iran on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, in retaliation for Iranian aggressions against three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. military command stated that Iran's actions were "unjustified, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire."

According to the U.S., Tehran attacked commercial ships, including a Qatari gas carrier and a Saudi oil tanker, causing material damage but no casualties. Qatar and Saudi Arabia have blamed Tehran for the incidents, warning of risks to international navigation and energy supply.

The U.S. stated its operations aim to impose significant costs on Iran for its attacks on commercial shipping and as a response to any actions deemed a violation of a recent agreement between the two nations. These new attacks occur amid heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas transport, despite a recently reached ceasefire.

In consequence of the escalation, Washington revoked the temporary sanctions relief previously granted to Iran as part of a framework understanding reached in June. The U.S. Treasury Department replaced the General License X with a new license, X1, which eliminates prior authorization for certain activities related to Iranian oil and establishes a process for their orderly closure.