The United States has carried out another round of attacks against Iran, according to a post on X by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), as reported by ShippingWatch. The strikes began Wednesday morning local time, marking several consecutive days of US military action against Iranian targets.
According to CENTCOM’s statement, the operation is intended to “further degrade the military capabilities that Iranian forces have used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.” In response, Iran has struck what it identifies as US targets across the region, ShippingWatch reports.
Blockade Resumed Alongside New Strikes
The latest wave of attacks coincided with the resumption of a US blockade against Iranian ports on the same day, also confirmed by CENTCOM via X. The blockade restricts vessel movement to and from these ports. CENTCOM stated that the US currently maintains more than 20 naval vessels and hundreds of military aircraft stationed in the region.
Adding to the tension, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard declared the Strait of Hormuz closed over the weekend, according to the report.
Trump Threatens Further Action
Speaking at a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, US President Donald Trump threatened to target Iran’s bridges and power plants next week should Iran fail to return to negotiations, ShippingWatch reports. Trump also indicated he no longer regards a memorandum of understanding between the two nations as valid.
That memorandum, signed in mid-June, had been designed to help end the conflict that began on February 28, when the US and Israel launched joint airstrikes against Iran. Since the agreement was signed, both nations have repeatedly accused each other of breaching the ceasefire, according to the report.
Does This Matter to You?
The continued military escalation in and around the Strait of Hormuz directly concerns vessel operators, charterers, and bunker traders with exposure to Middle East transits. The strait remains a critical chokepoint for oil and gas shipments, and the combination of US strikes, a resumed port blockade, and Iran’s declared closure of the strait signals heightened operational risk for commercial shipping in the area.
With CENTCOM confirming a large military presence in the region and further attacks threatened by President Trump, the security situation appears likely to remain volatile. Parties with cargo, crew, or assets transiting the Strait of Hormuz should closely monitor official channels for updates on port access and shipping restrictions.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: ShippingWatch (Ritzau)
