Iran Fires Missiles at Commercial Ships Near Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

On Tuesday morning, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched missiles targeting two commercial vessels near the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz, according to a senior U.S. official who spoke to the Wall Street Journal. Iranian state television confirmed the attack on at least one liquefied gas tanker, accusing the ship of ignoring prior warnings. U.S. reports indicate at least one vessel was hit by the missile fire.

In response, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf vowed retribution for the death of Ali Khamenei, describing it as the "final stage of revenge" to be fulfilled through the "liberation of Jerusalem." The Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council issued a stern warning to U.S. President Donald Trump following his recent threats, urging him to "speak to the Iranian people with respect or face a different response."

Trump, speaking from the White House's Oval Office, reiterated his tough stance on Iran, emphasizing the U.S. goal to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He claimed significant damage to Iran's naval capabilities and economic resources, stating, "We destroyed their 159 ships, and none remain operational." Trump also highlighted the U.S. naval blockade that prevented any ship passage for two months and threatened to disable Iran's energy infrastructure swiftly.

Meanwhile, Iran continues the funeral procession for former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei amid large banners calling for Trump's assassination, including a $100 million bounty for his killing. Iranian military spokesman Mohammad Akhremi-Nia revealed that Iran has used the ceasefire period to enhance its combat capabilities and declared full readiness.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Kachlon responded sharply, asserting that Khamenei was eliminated by Israel due to his role in orchestrating plans to destroy Israel. He warned that any Iranian leader attempting similar actions would be thwarted. Kachlon condemned the "Death to Trump" chants at the funeral as indicative of the true nature of the Iranian regime beyond its diplomatic facade.