The United States carried out another series of attacks on Iran on Saturday following an assault by Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps units on a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the US military. Central Command reported that its forces started the strikes at 5:45 a.m., the third round this week. A statement on X noted that a civilian crew member is missing and the vessel cannot proceed due to fire and engine damage. Command officials stated Iran had received another chance to follow a prior agreement but failed again. The strikes aim to impose costs by reducing Iran’s capacity to target ships in the waterway. They were ordered by President Donald Trump. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Iran chose poorly and would now face consequences. Iranian media reported explosions in several southern locations including Bushehr, Asaluyeh, Chabahar, Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Jask. Hours earlier Iran announced the strait closed again after a vessel on an unauthorized route received a warning shot, ending any fragile ceasefire. The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting said the navy would block all transits until US involvement ceases. Iran’s foreign minister discussed safe passage measures with Oman and accused Washington of breaking an interim deal by ending oil sale waivers after the vessel incidents.
