Iran and the United States have exchanged fresh military strikes in their most serious confrontation since signing an interim peace agreement just two weeks ago, raising fears that the fragile truce could collapse. The renewed violence comes as a commercial tanker was struck in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, further escalating tensions in one of the world’s busiest energy shipping corridors.
According to Britain’s maritime security agency, the tanker sustained damage to its bridge after being hit by a projectile on Saturday. Although the vessel was damaged, all crew members were reported safe. The latest incident follows an attack on a cargo ship earlier in the week, fueling concerns that maritime security in the Gulf is rapidly deteriorating.
Both Washington and Tehran have accused each other of violating the interim peace deal that was intended to end four months of conflict. The United States said it launched overnight strikes against Iranian targets after alleging Tehran breached the agreement. Iran, in turn, claimed it carried out retaliatory attacks on locations linked to U.S. forces, insisting its actions were defensive.
The latest exchange has renewed concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes. Following months of disruption during the conflict, commercial shipping had only recently begun returning to normal operations. However, the new attacks threaten to reverse those gains.
Britain’s UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed the tanker incident, while the Joint Maritime Information Center announced it had raised its regional threat level because of the increased risk to commercial vessels. Although Iran has not directly acknowledged responsibility for attacks on ships, state media reported that the Revolutionary Guards fired warning shots at vessels attempting to transit routes not authorised by Tehran. Officials said ships are now increasingly seeking Iranian approval before entering the waterway.
Iran also accused the United States of failing to uphold key provisions of the ceasefire agreement, particularly regarding regional tensions involving Lebanon. Iranian officials argue Washington has continued supporting its allies despite commitments to reduce hostilities. Meanwhile, Bahrain reported an Iranian drone attack targeting areas linked to U.S. military operations, though American officials have not yet commented on the claims.
Iranian authorities maintain they are asserting greater control over the Strait of Hormuz and have warned that vessels ignoring their navigation instructions could face consequences. Officials say the long-term objective is to regulate shipping through Iranian-controlled routes while strengthening security in the area.
On the American side, Vice President JD Vance defended Washington’s actions, insisting the United States had honored the ceasefire agreement. He warned that any further attacks by Iran would receive a firm military response, stating that violence would be answered with violence.
Energy markets are closely monitoring the developments. Oil prices had fallen sharply before the latest escalation as shipping gradually resumed through the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts warn that renewed instability could quickly reverse that trend if attacks continue and commercial traffic is disrupted once again.
Diplomatic efforts are expected to intensify over the coming days as both sides face growing international pressure to prevent the conflict from expanding further. With military exchanges continuing and global energy supplies once again under threat, the situation remains highly volatile.
