Washington: Tensions in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz escalated once again after the United States carried out airstrikes on Iranian military targets in response to a drone attack on a cargo vessel in the region.
The strikes come just days after Washington and Tehran reportedly reached an interim understanding aimed at ensuring the uninterrupted movement of ships through the key global oil transit route.
US President Donald Trump condemned the drone attack, describing it as a clear violation of the ceasefire arrangement. Following the incident, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it had conducted precision strikes targeting Iranian missile launch facilities, drone bases and coastal radar installations.
Iran, however, rejected the allegations. Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security Committee, said Tehran maintains control over the Strait of Hormuz and insisted that its actions did not violate any ceasefire agreement.
The renewed confrontation has raised fresh concerns over maritime security and global energy supplies. Shipping activity in the strait reportedly slowed following the attack, with some oil tankers altering course or delaying transit.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has temporarily suspended certain maritime safety operations in the region. According to reports, while more than 100 vessels have exited the strait in recent days, hundreds of ships remain in nearby waters awaiting further developments.
The Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of global oil shipments, making any disruption a major concern for international markets.
