In brief
In a rapid escalation, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they struck two ships in the vital Gulf traffic corridor after U.S. forces launched new air strikes. The United States described the operation as a self‑defence response to Iranian aggression and President Trump warned of a hard attack. The incident escalated a fragile ceasefire, triggered oil trader concerns, and drew international warnings that limited conflict could spiral into full war. Both sides blame each other for stalled diplomacy, while the U.N. Secretary‑General urged restraint.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) announced it had struck two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz after a fresh wave of U.S. air strikes on Iranian targets.
The United States Central Command described the operations as “self‑defence” against continued Iranian aggression, while President Donald Trump warned the nation that it would be hit “hard” again.
Iranian state media reported explosions on Qeshm Island and several Gulf cities, claiming the Strait was “completely closed” to all vessels. Washington said commercial shipping would continue uninterrupted.
The escalation added pressure to the fragile ceasefire agreed in April, and the U.N. Secretary‑General warned that even a limited flare‑up could deepen into full conflict.
Oil traders reacted immediately, pushing Brent crude above $95 a barrel as concerns rose over potential shipping disruptions.
Both sides blame each other for stalled diplomacy; Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian vowed to stand firm, while U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth promised continued bombings if a deal is not reached.
