US Launches Over 80 Precision Strikes on Iranian Targets
US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on July 7 that it had conducted over 80 precision strikes against Iranian targets in response to recent attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes targeted Iranian air defense systems, command and control networks, coastal radar sites, anti-ship missile capabilities, and more than 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps small boats in and near the strait. CENTCOM stated that the operation aimed to degrade Iran's ability to continue attacking international commerce in the strategic waterway.
Iran Retaliates Against Bahrain and Kuwait
In retaliation, Iran launched strikes against military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait. Bahrain hosts the US Navy's 5th Fleet, while Kuwait houses US Army personnel. Iran's Revolutionary Guard confirmed the strikes, accusing the US of openly violating the ceasefire with attacks on coastal bases and civilian stations. The Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint in the fragile truce, which had been established following an interim ceasefire deal.
Ceasefire Violations Accusations
Following the US strikes, Iran's top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the US of committing major violations of the initial ceasefire deal, known as the Islamabad memorandum of understanding. In a post on X, he cited persistent threats of further strikes, reinstating oil sanctions, and attacks on southern Iran. He stated, 'The era of bullying and extortion is over. It leads nowhere. We don't fold.'
Escalation Threatens Maritime Security
The renewed hostilities have raised the threat level for maritime traffic in the Gulf from 'substantial' to 'severe,' according to maritime authorities. Three civilian vessels were hit in the strait on Tuesday, the most in a single day since late April, based on UN International Maritime Organisation figures. The attacks threaten to disrupt shipping and complicate efforts to secure a permanent end to the conflict, which began on February 28 with US and Israeli operations.
Political and Diplomatic Repercussions
President Donald Trump has stated that the US would either reach a deal with Tehran or 'finish the job.' Meanwhile, tensions are high in Iran following funeral ceremonies for the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the opening attack of the war. The initial ceasefire deal only secures safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for 60 days, pending a final agreement on Iran's nuclear plans. The pact also leaves the future administration of the strait to Iran, Oman, and other Gulf states.
International Response and Future Prospects
Iran has continued to exert leverage over the channel, demanding ships seek permission to transit and threatening future charges. Tehran claims exclusive rights to mine clearance in the strait under the interim agreement, after Oman agreed to work with Britain and France to keep the route open. A joint statement from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron affirmed their commitment to regional stability and freedom of navigation, with plans to deploy a multinational military mission if needed. The two leaders emphasized respect for sovereignty and international law.
