US Strikes Iran After Hormuz Ship Attack
The United States launched a new wave of airstrikes against Iran after Iranian forces attacked a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Tehran had made a “poor choice” as the conflict intensified across the Gulf.
US Strikes 140 Targets Across Iran
US Central Command said the military struck around 140 Iranian targets on Sunday under orders from President Donald Trump.
The operation reportedly targeted missile and drone launch sites, ammunition facilities, communications equipment and other military infrastructure linked to threats against commercial shipping.
The latest attack was significantly larger than two previous rounds of US strikes conducted during the preceding week.
Hegseth responded to the operation by warning Iran that it would pay for its actions.
Iranian Attack Leaves Indian Crew Member Missing
The US action followed an Iranian attack on a Cyprus-flagged container ship travelling through the Strait of Hormuz near Oman’s coastline.
The vessel suffered serious engine-room damage and caught fire, leaving it unable to continue its journey. One Indian crew member was reported missing, while the remaining personnel abandoned the damaged ship.
India condemned the attack and called for free and uninterrupted navigation through the strategically important waterway.
Iran said the vessel had ignored instructions to change course and was struck with a warning shot.
Iran Retaliates Against Gulf Countries
Iran responded to the US strikes by launching missiles and drones towards Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Oman, where American military forces are stationed.
Tehran also declared that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until further notice and warned that additional US-linked bases could be targeted.
The waterway carries nearly one-fifth of globally traded oil and natural gas, making continued disruption a major threat to energy supplies, shipping costs and the global economy.
