US launches airstrikes on Iran, Tehran fires back at Gulf states | AP News
The United States has carried out a new round of airstrikes against Iran after an Iranian attack on a commercial container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the US Department of Defense.
The latest military action marks the third round of US airstrikes against Iran in one week, highlighting growing tensions in one of the world’s most important shipping routes.
Why Did the US Launch Airstrikes?
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), Iranian forces attacked the M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship traveling through the Strait of Hormuz.
The attack reportedly caused:
- A major fire on board the vessel
- Extensive damage to the engine room
- One civilian crew member reported missing
- The ship becoming unable to continue its journey
In response, President Donald Trump ordered fresh airstrikes targeting Iranian military capabilities.
CENTCOM said the operation was aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to attack commercial ships and ensuring the safety of international maritime traffic.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also reacted strongly, saying Iran would face serious consequences for attacking civilian shipping.
Iran Announces Closure of the Strait of Hormuz
Following the US strikes, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that the Strait of Hormuz has been closed to all ship traffic until further notice, according to Iranian state media.
Iran stated that no vessels would be allowed to pass through the strategic waterway during this period.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s busiest energy corridors, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Any disruption there can affect global energy prices and international trade.
Dispute Over Shipping Routes
The latest confrontation comes despite a memorandum of understanding signed by the US and Iran on June 17, which aimed to restore safe shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
However, disagreements remain over how ships should navigate the area.
Iran has reportedly insisted that vessels use a northern route passing through its territorial waters, while many commercial ships have continued using the southern route near Oman under US military protection.
Experts say the earlier agreement did not clearly define approved shipping lanes, leaving room for conflicting interpretations.
Diplomatic Talks Continue
Even as military tensions rise, diplomatic efforts have not stopped.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi traveled to Oman for discussions with Omani officials. Oman has played a key role in mediating between Washington and Tehran in recent months.
Reports also suggest that France and the United Kingdom are reviewing proposals that could allow limited navigation fees in the Strait of Hormuz, provided they comply with international maritime rules.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is considered one of the world’s most strategically important waterways because a large portion of global oil exports passes through it every day.
Any military conflict or shipping disruption in the region can quickly impact global energy markets, fuel prices, and international trade.
Key Takeaway
The United States has launched another round of airstrikes against Iran after Tehran allegedly attacked a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has responded by announcing the temporary closure of the waterway, while diplomatic negotiations continue in an effort to prevent a wider regional conflict. The situation remains highly volatile, with significant implications for global trade and energy supplies.
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