Tensions between the US and Iran have reached a new peak. Iranian forces have targeted a Cyprus-flagged cargo ship. The US Central Command reports that the vessel has been severely damaged and one crew member is missing. The remaining crew members have been evacuated via lifeboats.
The Iranian side claims that the ship violated its route and that they fired warning shots. The IRGC has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. They state that the passage will remain closed until US interference ceases.
In response, the US has struck approximately 140 military facilities across Iran. Explosions have been reported at Iranian ports. The IRGC has also attacked military bases of US allies in Jordan, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Explosions were heard in Doha, and an air raid alert has been declared in Bahrain.
These clashes, which began on July 7, are linked to a memorandum of understanding signed in February. The US demands that Iran acknowledge a violation of the memorandum. Tehran, however, accuses Washington of imposing new sanctions.
Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has vowed to avenge the fallen leader. Despite the ongoing attacks, mediated negotiations between the parties are continuing.
