WASHINGTON: The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has announced that a new series of attacks against Iran has been initiated. These actions were carried out in response to an attack by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard on a cargo vessel flying the Cypriot flag.
According to CENTCOM, following the Iranian attack, a crew member of the vessel went missing, and a fire broke out on the ship, causing severe damage to the engine room, rendering the vessel unable to continue its voyage.
CENTCOM further stated that Iran has been given opportunities to improve its conduct and adhere to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) after previous attacks on commercial ships. However, Iran has once again failed to comply.
The command emphasized that these attacks are being carried out under the directives of the US President.
Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations Agency reported an incident approximately 9 nautical miles east of Oman.
It is noteworthy that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has announced the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian state media, the Guard stated that a vessel attempted to pass through an unapproved route, prompting warning shots. The statement further warned that no ships will be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz until further notice. The Revolutionary Guard warned that any hostile actions taken by enemies in this context will be met with a strong response.
