The United States launched a new round of military strikes on Iran after renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, following an alleged attack on a commercial cargo ship by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The escalation came shortly after Iran announced the closure of the strategically vital waterway.
US Targets Iranian Sites After Attack on Commercial Ship
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces carried out what it described as the third round of strikes against Iran this week. According to CENTCOM, the operation was launched after the IRGC allegedly attacked the Cyprus-flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy while it was transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The US military said the vessel suffered a fire and significant engine-room damage, leaving it unable to continue its voyage. CENTCOM also reported that one civilian crew member remains missing.
The operation was conducted under the direction of US President Donald Trump, with CENTCOM stating that Iran had failed to comply with previous commitments aimed at protecting commercial shipping in the region.
Explosions Reported in Southern Iran
Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB reported explosions in several locations, including:
- Bandar Abbas
- Sirik
- Chabahar
- Asaluyeh
The reported blasts occurred shortly after the US operation was announced. Chabahar is of particular strategic importance due to its role as a key regional port with significant economic and connectivity interests for India.
Unverified Reports Claim HIMARS Fired From Bahrain
Soon after news of the strikes emerged, social media posts claimed that HIMARS rocket systems may have been launched from Bahrain toward Iranian targets.
However, there has been no official confirmation from the US military or Bahraini authorities regarding these claims. The reports remain unverified at the time of publication.
Pete Hegseth Reacts: “Now They Pay”
Following the strikes, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted a brief message on X (formerly Twitter):
“Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay.”
The statement underscored Washington’s position that the strikes were a response to attacks on commercial shipping in one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
CENTCOM Explains Why the US Launched the Attack
According to CENTCOM, the latest military action was ordered after Iran allegedly attacked the M/V GFS Galaxy, causing severe damage to the commercial vessel.
The US military said Iran had previously been given opportunities to comply with an agreement designed to protect freedom of navigation but had failed to do so.
CENTCOM stated that the strikes were intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten civilian vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump Warned Iran Ahead of Latest Escalation
Just a day before the latest strikes, President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Tehran.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said the US military was prepared to launch overwhelming retaliation if Iran attempted to assassinate him.
He claimed that American forces had been instructed and were ready to carry out large-scale military operations against Iran if necessary.
Iran Announces Closure of the Strait of Hormuz
Hours before the US strikes, Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.
Iran warned that any further military action against the country would trigger a severe response and that additional military bases in the region could become targets.
According to Iranian state media, the strait would remain closed until further notice and until what Tehran described as the end of American military intervention in the region.
Iran Vows Retaliation
Iran also issued fresh warnings following the escalation.
Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to avenge those killed during the recent conflict, saying retaliation was a demand of the Iranian people.
In a statement shared on social media, Khamenei vowed to seek revenge against those responsible for the deaths of Iran’s leaders and military personnel.
Growing Concerns Over Regional Stability
The latest exchange of military action has significantly increased tensions across the Middle East. With the Strait of Hormuz serving as a key route for global oil exports, any prolonged disruption could have serious implications for international energy markets, shipping, and regional security.
Governments and global markets are closely monitoring developments as the situation continues to evolve.