US Strikes Iranian Targets After Tehran Fires Missiles at American Ships Near Strait of Hormuz

Following Iranian missile attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, the United States launched military strikes against Iranian targets near the strait. Tehran vowed a firm response to the US attacks, accusing Washington of repeatedly violating their memorandum of understanding. Iranian state media reported that Tehran fired missiles and drones at American naval vessels, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have downed an American MQ-9 drone in southern Iran.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry issued a stern warning about the consequences of US violations, emphasizing decisive measures to protect national security and interests. Meanwhile, Bahrain's Interior Ministry announced that sirens sounded overnight after the US strikes, urging citizens to remain calm and seek shelter. Kuwait also reported nationwide air raid sirens, with its military activating air defense systems against missile and drone attacks.

The US Central Command stated that the strikes targeted Iranian air defense systems, command and control networks, coastal radar sites, missile capabilities against ships, and over 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps small boats around the strait. This was intended to impose heavy costs on Tehran for attacks on commercial ships carrying civilian crews through an international waterway. The US described Iran's actions as unjustified, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement effective since April 8.

These developments follow attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz within 24 hours, including a Qatari liquefied gas tanker that accused Iran of the assault. The US strikes are the first against Iran since late last month, when Washington responded to Iranian attacks on commercial shipping with airstrikes.

Summary: The US conducted military strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz after Iran fired missiles at American ships, escalating tensions despite a recent ceasefire agreement. Bahrain and Kuwait activated air defenses amid the conflict, while Iran vowed a strong response to US actions.