The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has fired at least two missiles at commercial vessels transiting through the Strait of Hormuz, causing significant damages, according to a US official. The official told Axios Global Affairs Correspondent Barak Ravid that two ships were hit, but no casualties have been reported. The Mirror cannot independently verify these reports.
Background of Conflict
Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated after the US and Israel conducted joint strikes on several key Iranian sites on February 28. This led to months of conflict, disrupting shipping through the critical Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of all globally traded oil passes.
Recent Peace Efforts
On June 17, the US and Iran signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at ending hostilities within 60 days. Under the MoU, Iran agreed to ensure the resumption of merchant ship movements through the strait to pre-war levels within 30 days, while the US committed to lifting its naval blockade and restoring full traffic capacity within the same timeframe.
The strait's closure had caused widespread panic in global markets due to its importance for oil shipments. The attack comes as both sides work toward a long-term peace deal to resolve disputes over Iran's nuclear program and restore global shipping.
