The U.S.–Iran confrontation has sharply intensified, with Tehran retaliating against new American airstrikes by launching attacks on two tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The escalation in the strategically vital waterway is now a confirmed reality, as both sides exchange military strikes.
U.S. Launches Five-Hour Wave of Strikes Across Iran
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces have completed a five-hour wave of precision strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure across multiple locations—including Bushehr, Chabahar, Jask, Konarak, Abu Musa, and Bandar Abbas. According to CENTCOM, the operation aimed to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping by striking coastal defense systems, missile and drone sites, and maritime assets.
“U.S. forces remain on high alert, lethal, and ready,” CENTCOM stated, adding that video footage of the strikes had been released. The operation was carried out under direct orders from former U.S. President Donald Trump, following his remarks on the Hugh Hewitt Show, where he warned Iran would be hit “very hard” and pledged continued U.S. military action.
Trump Declares U.S. as ‘Guardian of the Strait of Hormuz’
In a Truth Social post, Trump declared: “The Strait of Hormuz is open—and will remain open, with or without Iran. We are re-imposing Iran’s isolation.” He further asserted that the United States would now serve as the “guardian of the Strait of Hormuz” and proposed a 20% fee on all cargo transiting the waterway—justifying it as a matter of “justice.”
Iran Rejects U.S. Claims, Asserts Sovereignty
Iran’s top military leadership dismissed the U.S. assertion, stating Washington has no legitimate role in shaping the future of the Strait and will not be allowed to intervene. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that Tehran considers itself the “guardian” of the Strait—and intends to uphold that role “forever.” Responding with irony to Trump’s proposed 20% fee, Araghchi remarked: “Twenty percent is obviously excessive. We will be fair.”
One Fatality in Iranian Tanker Attacks
The UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed that Iranian-launched missiles struck two Emirati tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. One crew member was killed aboard one of the vessels. The ministry identified the ships as Emirati-flagged but did not release further details about their names or operators.