Tehran – Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated significantly following a series of military confrontations in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation developed rapidly after three commercial tankers were struck by projectiles, prompting the United States to revoke a temporary sanctions waiver on Iranian oil and launch extensive military strikes against Iranian targets.

Current Status: Amidst the ongoing exchange, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian departed Iraq, and Tehran has pledged a “crushing response” to what it labels a “blatant act of aggression” by Washington.

Maritime Attacks: Three tankers, identified as M/T Al Rekayyat, M/T Wedyan, and M/T Cyprus Prosperity, were targeted by projectiles and drones while transiting the Strait.

US Military Response: The US Central Command (CENTCOM) launched precision strikes against more than 80 targets, including Iranian air defence systems, radar sites, command networks, and over 60 small boats.

Iranian Retaliation: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have launched missile and drone operations against 85 US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait, including the US Fifth Fleet base and Ali Al-Salem airbase.

Regional Impact: Air raid sirens were activated in Bahrain and Kuwait, with the Kuwaiti army reporting the successful interception of hostile projectiles. Additionally, the IRGC reported downing a US MQ-9 drone over Bushehr province.

Diplomatic Fallout: The United States revoked a general licence for Iranian oil sales, citing “wholly unacceptable” actions by Iran. Conversely, Iran accused the US of breaching the Islamabad memorandum of understanding (MoU) and violating regional security.