The United States has carried out another round of military strikes against Iran after accusing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of attacking a commercial container vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest operation began at approximately 7:15 p.m. Eastern Time on July 12 and marked the third round of U.S. strikes against Iran during the week. The military said the action was ordered by the Commander in Chief in response to what it described as a direct attack on international shipping.
Commercial Vessel Suffers Major Damage
CENTCOM said the IRGC targeted the M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The military reported that the attack left one civilian crew member missing, while the vessel sustained extensive damage. An onboard fire and significant damage to the engine room rendered the ship unable to continue its voyage, according to the statement.
U.S. Says Iran Failed to Honor Previous Commitments
The U.S. military said Iran had been given another opportunity to demonstrate compliance with a previously established Memorandum of Understanding after earlier incidents involving commercial vessels.
According to CENTCOM, Tehran failed to meet those expectations, prompting Washington to respond with additional military action aimed at holding Iranian forces accountable for attacks on civilian maritime traffic.
Strikes Aim to Reduce Iran’s Maritime Capabilities
CENTCOM said the latest strikes are intended to impose substantial costs on Iranian forces by degrading their ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial ships operating in the Strait of Hormuz.
The military described the operation as part of a broader campaign to weaken capabilities used in attacks against international shipping while reinforcing security along one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.
Tensions Continue to Rise in the Gulf Region
The latest military action adds to a series of escalating exchanges between the United States and Iran centered on maritime security in the Gulf.
With repeated strikes and accusations targeting commercial shipping, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of heightened regional tensions, as U.S. forces continue operations intended to protect freedom of navigation and deter further attacks on civilian vessels.
