U.S. launches strikes against Iran after accusing it of attacking commercial ships in Hormuz

The United States military launched retaliatory strikes against Iran on Tuesday, following Iranian aggression against three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. Central Command (Centcom) stated that Iran's actions were "unjustified, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire."

Centcom accused Tehran of attacking ships carrying "innocent civilians" in an international waterway. The U.S. military operations aim to "impose significant costs" on Iran for the attacks on commercial shipping and are framed as a response to any actions deemed a violation of a recent agreement. These new strikes occur amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with the Strait of Hormuz becoming a focal point due to its importance for global oil and gas transport.

U.S. authorities reported that Iran attacked three commercial vessels, including a Qatari gas tanker and a Saudi oil tanker, causing material damage but no crew casualties. Qatar and Saudi Arabia have blamed Tehran for the incidents, warning they jeopardize international navigation safety and energy supply security.

In response to the escalation, Washington revoked the temporary relief previously granted to Iran as part of a June understanding. The U.S. Treasury Department rescinded General License X, issued on June 21, and replaced it with X1. This move eliminates prior authorization for certain activities and establishes an orderly process for winding down already permitted operations.

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Iran's actions were unjustified, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire.