The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) says U.S. forces launched military strikes against targets in Iran early Wednesday, describing the operation as a response to alleged Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said American forces had begun “powerful strikes” against Iran to impose what it described as significant costs for targeting commercial ships carrying civilian crews in an international waterway.
CENTCOM characterized the alleged attacks on the vessels as “unprovoked, dangerous and a clear violation of the ceasefire,” adding that the U.S. military action was carried out in direct response. The command did not identify the specific targets struck or provide an assessment of the damage.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media, including IRIB, reported multiple explosions in Sirik County, Qeshm Island and the city of Bandar Abbas during the early hours of Wednesday. The reports did not specify the cause of the explosions or confirm whether they were linked to the U.S. operation.
As of publication, Iranian authorities had not issued an official response to CENTCOM’s statement. Tehran has also previously denied responsibility for the alleged attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest developments mark another sharp escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, raising renewed concerns over regional stability, the security of international shipping lanes and the potential impact on global energy markets.
