The United States has launched military strikes against Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz, following what officials described as a "dangerous" ceasefire violation by Iran.
US Central Command announced Friday that the strikes hit Iranian missile and drone storage locations and radar sites along the Persian Gulf. A US official stated that the "unwarranted aggression against commercial shipping by Iranian forces clearly violated the ceasefire" and "undermined freedom of navigation as commerce increasingly flows through the vital international trade corridor."
The incident occurred Thursday when Iran launched explosive-laden suicide drones at a Singaporean cargo ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The vessel sustained significant damage to its bridge, although no injuries or deaths have been confirmed.
Prior to the drone attack, Iranian state media had issued warnings to oil tankers, cautioning that routes through the strait were restricted and other routes were "completely dangerous."
When questioned by reporters about a potential response moments before the strikes, President Donald Trump stated, "You'll see."
The military action takes place amid delicate negotiations between the US and Iran aimed at establishing a long-term peace agreement to limit the regime's nuclear program. A memorandum of understanding signed the previous week committed Iran to using its "best efforts for the safe passage of commercial vessels with no charge for 60 days."