Iran has violated the ceasefire amid tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz
The ceasefire in the Persian Gulf has broken down, leading to an escalation of tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. US President Donald Trump has announced the launch of ‘Project Freedom’, aimed at evacuating commercial vessels from the strait, according to The Wall Street Journal.
The project is being positioned as a humanitarian mission to assist ships and crews that have become stranded, as well as a step towards restoring energy flows. US Central Command has advised ships to follow a route near Oman, away from Iran, within the established enhanced security zone.
The US military is providing protection for shipping using aircraft and ships. It is reported that two US-flagged commercial vessels were escorted through the strait and were later accompanied by destroyers. According to Centcom Commander Admiral Brad Cooper, a safe corridor has been established in the region, particularly following the clearance of the waterway.
In response, Iran announced the use of force. Initially, Iranian media reported that a US warship had been hit, but after this information was refuted, they clarified that it had been warning shots.
At the same time, attacks on commercial vessels were recorded; in particular, a United Arab Emirates tanker was struck by drones, and a South Korean vessel suffered an explosion and fire in the waters of the strait.
Donald Trump confirmed the attack on the South Korean vessel and called for South Korea’s participation in the operation to be considered. According to the US military, US forces intercepted missiles and drones, and also destroyed several Iranian speedboats.
The United Arab Emirates stated that it had intercepted 15 Iranian missiles and reported a drone attack on the oil industry zone in Fujairah.
According to US officials, Iran is attempting to maintain control over oil shipments as a key instrument of influence, whilst also pressuring Washington to lift the blockade of Iranian ports.
The US military reports that new commercial vessels are already heading towards the exit of the strait under the protection of the security system that has been established.
The US President has stated that Iran will face a harsh response in the event of attacks on American vessels. He said the US has sufficient resources to use force.
