The United States launched airstrikes against Iran in response to an Iranian attack on a container ship, the M/V GFS Galaxy, in the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian attack set the ship ablaze, caused significant engine room damage, and left one crew member missing. In retaliation, Iran attacked countries in the Middle East hosting U.S. military forces, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, and Oman. Iran's actions led to missile alerts in several Gulf Arab countries, with Qatar's military intercepting incoming Iranian fire, resulting in three injuries there.
The U.S. Central Command reported hitting approximately 140 targets in Iran, including missile and drone launch sites, ammunition dumps, and communication equipment, stating these attacks would weaken Iran's ability to threaten shipping. Despite claims from Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard that the Strait of Hormuz was closed "until further notice" due to the ship using an unapproved route, the U.S. military and Trump administration asserted the strait remained open. The U.S. Navy-led Joint Maritime Information Center reiterated that an "expanded" southern route near Oman was available for two-way traffic.
The conflict escalates during a 60-day interim deal between Iran and the U.S. aimed at ending the war, with mediators like Pakistan, Qatar, and Egypt continuing efforts to secure a ceasefire. Oman summoned the Iranian ambassador to protest the strikes, calling Iran's actions "irresponsible." The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for about a fifth of global traded oil and natural gas before the war, has been a key sticking point, with Iran insisting on its control, leading to a global energy crisis and initial oil price highs of $120 a barrel.
