US Launches Strikes on Iran After Alleged Strait of Hormuz Vessel Attacks

US forces launched strikes on Iran on Tuesday after after accusing Tehran of attacking three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the US military said, sharply escalating a confrontation that has already shaken efforts to end the West Asia war. Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported multiple explosions near the Strait of Hormuz, including six on Qeshm Island, seven in the city of Sirik, and several more in the major port city of Bandar Abbas.

In a post on X, US Central Command wrote,''U.S. Central Command forces have begun launching a series of powerful strikes against Iran to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway. The U.S. strikes are in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels that were transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's demonstrated aggression was unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire.''

Iran's Foreign Ministry accused the United States of repeatedly violating the memorandum of understanding between the two countries and warned that Tehran would respond.

In a statement carried by state media, the ministry said Iran was issuing a "serious warning" over what it described as Washington's breach of the agreement and would take "decisive measures" to safeguard its national interests and security.

The strikes came shortly after the United States revoked a temporary sanctions waiver on Iranian oil exports, increasing pressure on Tehran as both sides continue negotiations over a final settlement to the conflict.

The US Treasury Department withdrew a licence announced in June that had allowed Iran to produce, sell and deliver crude oil and related petroleum products until August 21.