Iran vows ‘crushing response’ after US strikes around Strait of Hormuz

Iran on Tuesday vowed a “crushing response” to fresh U.S. attacks after state media reported multiple explosions across the Strait of Hormuz region, moments after Washington announced what it described as “powerful” strikes targeting more than 80 sites across the country.

Iran’s top joint military command said the country’s armed forces would deliver a “crushing response” to the U.S. attacks, while the foreign ministry accused Washington of repeatedly violating the memorandum of understanding aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, citing continued aggression in Lebanon and other threats.

“Iran is issuing a serious warning about the consequences of America’s breach of the treaty, and will take decisive measures to protect its interests and national security,” the foreign ministry said in a statement carried by IRIB News on Telegram.

Iranian state broadcaster IRIB reported six explosions on Qeshm Island, seven in the coastal city of Sirik and additional blasts in the strategic port city of Bandar Abbas.

Separately, the United States revoked a temporary sanctions waiver that had allowed limited Iranian oil sales after three commercial tankers were struck in the Strait of Hormuz, increasing pressure on Tehran as negotiations over ending the Middle East war continue.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) agency said an “unknown projectile” struck a tanker overnight, triggering a fire, before two other vessels were hit, including at least one by a drone.

All three incidents occurred off the coast of Oman. Muscat had proposed a temporary shipping corridor along its coastline to improve maritime safety, but Iran has opposed the initiative as it seeks to impose transit fees on vessels using the Strait of Hormuz.

(With inputs from Agencies)