U.S. Launches Strikes Against Iran After Strait of Hormuz Ship Attacks

U.S. forces launched retaliatory strikes against Iran Tuesday in response to attacks by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps on three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz over the past two days.

U.S. Central Command stated Iran's aggression was "unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire." The attacks on two tankers and one other vessel represented a sharp escalation, threatening fragile diplomatic efforts to secure the critical maritime chokepoint.

The strikes followed Iran's drone attack on a Singapore-flagged vessel last week, occurring just after Washington and Tehran had agreed to suspend hostilities for indirect negotiations.

In a direct economic response, the U.S. revoked Iran's general license to export oil, known as GL X. A U.S. official stated the action is based on a "performance-based" Memorandum of Understanding, emphasizing Iran will only reap benefits with good behavior.

Saudi Arabia condemned the attacks, identifying targeted vessels including the Saudi tanker Vijian and the Qatari tanker Rakiyat. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister warned of decisive actions in response to U.S. measures.