US Launches Strikes On Iran After Cargo Ship Attack In Strait Of Hormuz
The United States has carried out military strikes against Iran after a Singapore-flagged cargo vessel was reportedly attacked while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears that a fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran could be on the verge of collapse.
According to the US military, aircraft targeted Iranian missile storage facilities, drone depots and coastal radar installations on June 26. US Central Command described the operation as a response to what it called an Iranian attack on a commercial vessel travelling through one of the world’s busiest shipping routes.
The latest exchange marks one of the most serious incidents since both sides agreed to a ceasefire aimed at reducing tensions and restoring stability in the Gulf region.
Singapore-Flagged Vessel At Centre Of Dispute
The vessel involved, the Ever Lovely, is a Singapore-flagged cargo ship operated by Taiwan’s Evergreen Marine. The company said the ship was struck by an unidentified object near Oman while following a route recommended by British maritime authorities. Fortunately, no injuries were reported and the vessel was able to continue its journey.
US officials have alleged that Iran was responsible for the attack, claiming a drone struck the vessel while it was passing through the strategic waterway. The attack reportedly damaged part of the ship but did not prevent it from exiting the Strait of Hormuz safely.
President Donald Trump accused Tehran of violating the ceasefire agreement, while Vice-President J.D. Vance warned that any further aggression would be met with force.
Iran, however, rejected the accusations and argued that vessels travelling through the strait must comply with regulations imposed by Iranian authorities. Tehran maintains that it was the United States that breached the agreement first.
Iran Vows Retaliation
Iranian state media reported that a projectile struck an area near the southern Iranian port of Sirik shortly after the US operation began. Iranian authorities said their naval forces subsequently launched attacks against US military positions in the region.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned that any further military action by Washington would trigger a broader response. Iranian officials also reiterated their position that they have a key role in regulating maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.
The dispute highlights continuing disagreements over freedom of navigation in the waterway, which handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Any disruption can have major implications for global energy markets and international trade.
Oil Markets Remain On Edge
Despite the renewed military confrontation, oil prices fell as tanker traffic gradually resumed through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping data showed that major exporters, including Saudi Arabia, had restarted crude loading operations, easing concerns over a prolonged supply disruption.
However, maritime traffic remains below normal levels, with shipping companies and insurers continuing to assess risks in the region. The United Nations also temporarily suspended parts of its ship escort programme following the attack on the Ever Lovely.
With both Washington and Tehran accusing each other of violating the ceasefire, analysts warn that tensions in the Gulf remain highly volatile. Further incidents involving commercial vessels could quickly escalate into a wider regional confrontation, threatening global shipping routes and energy supplies.