US strikes Iranian military sites after Hormuz attack as Tehran retaliates
The United States carried out airstrikes on Iranian military targets on Friday after accusing Tehran of violating a recently signed ceasefire by launching a drone attack on a commercial cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, sharply escalating tensions between the two countries.
According to U.S. President Donald Trump, four drones were launched toward commercial vessels transiting the strategic waterway. He said three were intercepted by U.S. forces, while one struck a cargo ship, causing damage but no reported casualties. Trump described the attack as a "foolish violation" of the ceasefire agreement.
US targets missile and drone facilities
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said American aircraft struck Iranian missile and drone storage facilities, as well as coastal radar installations near the Strait of Hormuz, describing the operation as a response to the attack on commercial shipping and an effort to protect freedom of navigation.
Iranian state media reported explosions near the southern port area of Sirik in Hormozgan province following the strikes. Officials also said Iranian forces had fired warning shots at vessels they claimed were transiting the strait without authorization.
Iran announces retaliation
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had launched retaliatory strikes against U.S. military positions in the region, warning that any further attacks would be met with a broader response. The IRGC did not immediately provide details on the locations or extent of the retaliation.
Diplomatic efforts face new test
The escalation comes despite a ceasefire and broader diplomatic framework reached earlier this month between Washington and Tehran, which included reopening the Strait of Hormuz and launching negotiations on Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief.
The latest confrontation has raised fresh doubts about the durability of the agreement, although neither side has announced its withdrawal from the ongoing diplomatic process.
