The United States launched airstrikes on multiple targets in Iran, shortly after revoking a waiver that allowed the global sale of Iranian oil. This dual action was a response to what the Pentagon described as Iranian attacks on three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The military’s Central Command announced via social media that U.S. forces intend to “impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping crewed by innocent civilians in an international waterway.” The targeted commercial ships, including a Saudi oil tanker and a Qatari liquefied natural gas carrier near Oman, risked disrupting energy supply and derailing a preliminary agreement between Washington and Tehran to reopen the strategic waterway.

Central Command labeled Iran’s actions as “unwarranted, dangerous, and a clear violation of the cease-fire.” Meanwhile, Iran has not taken responsibility for the attacks, and local officials have not commented publicly as funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei proceed. Negotiations between Iran and the United States have been paused pending the conclusion of the ceremonies.

The preliminary accord between the two nations endorses reopening the strait. President Trump stated the waterway should allow unrestricted navigation. Despite this, the specifics of this process remain undecided. Iran wants commercial ships to navigate close to its shore in its controlled channel. However, many vessels prefer an American-supported route near Oman.