US Launches Retaliatory Strikes on Iran
The United States has launched new military strikes on Iran after multiple commercial vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the assault began on July 7, 2026, stating it was intended 'to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent individuals in an international waterway.'
Timeline of Attacks
The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported that multiple oil tankers were targeted on July 6 and July 7. Iran has not claimed responsibility for the attacks. The strikes came hours after the US announced it would reinstate sanctions on Iran over the ship attacks.
Ceasefire Violations
In a statement, CENTCOM said: 'Iran's demonstrated aggression was unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire.' The attacks occurred days after US President Donald Trump signed a peace agreement with Iran. CENTCOM added: 'Iran was given a chance to honour the ceasefire agreement but elected not to when its forces launched a one-way attack drone that hit MT Kiku, a Panama-flagged tanker.'
Trump's Warning
President Trump warned that 'the Islamic Republic of Iran will no longer exist' if it does not stop alleged violations of the peace agreement. Iran accused the US of breaching the ceasefire, citing ongoing Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which were required to end under the peace deal.
Strait of Hormuz Closure
On June 20, Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz 'closed' again, accusing the US of violating ceasefire agreements. Iran stated that ships must seek permission to use the waterway and raised the possibility of future charges. It remains unclear if this led to the recent attacks on ships.
