The United States launched a new round of air strikes against targets in southern Iran after accusing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of attacking a commercial container ship in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the US military, the latest operation marked the third round of strikes against Iran. The strikes were carried out following an incident involving a civilian vessel transiting one of the world’s busiest maritime routes.
US Says Container Ship Came Under Attack
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the IRGC attacked a container ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the military, the attack caused serious damage to the vessel.
“A civilian crew member is missing and the vessel is unable to continue the journey due to an onboard fire and significant engineroom damage,” CENTCOM said.
The US military added that the latest strikes were conducted under the direction of President Donald Trump.
US Explains Reason for the Strikes
CENTCOM said the United States decided to launch another round of strikes after accusing Iran of violating commitments made under the Memorandum of Understanding signed on June 16.
“Iran was provided yet another opportunity to demonstrate adherence to the Memorandum of Understanding after being held accountable for earlier attacks on commercial vessels but has again failed,” the statement said.
The US military also explained the purpose of the operation.
“In response, the United States is imposing a heavy cost by continuing to degrade Iran’s ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships freely transiting the strait,” it added.
Explosions Reported Across Southern Iran
Meanwhile, multiple explosions were reported in several cities across southern Iran following the strikes.
According to official reports, three explosions were heard in Bandar Abbas. Another three blasts were reported in Sirik.
In addition, two explosions were reported in Chabahar.
Authorities also reported five explosions in Bandar-e Deyr in Bushehr province.
Furthermore, four explosions were heard in Asaluyeh, which is also located in Bushehr province.
The reported blasts came shortly after the United States announced the latest military operation.
Maritime Authorities Issue Safety Warning
Earlier, maritime authorities reported an incident involving a container ship about nine nautical miles, or 16 kilometres, east of the Omani coast.
According to the advisory, the vessel sustained damage to its rear section, which triggered a fire onboard.
“Military authorities have reported that a container ship has sustained damage to the rear of the vessel which has caused a fire onboard,” the advisory stated.
As a result, ships operating in the area were urged to remain alert.
“Vessels are advised to transit with caution,” the advisory added.
The warning was issued shortly before the United States confirmed the third round of air strikes, linking the military action to the reported attack on the commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest developments have further heightened tensions in the strategically important waterway, where commercial shipping remains under close international attention.
