The United States has launched retaliatory strikes against Iran in response to a missile attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. Central Command reported Saturday. The attack, attributed to Iran, caused significant damage to the Cyprus-flagged container ship and left a civilian crew member missing.
According to U.S. Central Command, Iran fired a missile at the vessel as it attempted to transit the strategic waterway. The strike ignited a fire and inflicted heavy damage, forcing the ship to halt its journey. "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," U.S. Central Command stated.
In the wake of the incident, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) declared the Strait of Hormuz closed until further notice. The IRGC cited "regional interference by the US" as the reason for the closure, stating that "No vessel or naval craft will be allowed to pass." The IRGC also claimed the targeted vessel was attempting to use an unauthorized route.
The U.S. military strikes commenced around 7:15 p.m. Eastern time, marking the third round of retaliatory actions against Iran this week. This escalation follows President Trump's statement on Friday, where he indicated on Truth Social that while negotiations with Iran would continue, "the Cease Fire is OVER!"
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, and its closure has significant implications for international trade and regional stability.