The United States launched a seven-hour wave of strikes on Iranian military targets near the Strait of Hormuz after resuming a naval blockade of vessels travelling to and from Iranian ports. CENTCOM said the operation targeted missile, drone and coastal defence capabilities.
The US launched strikes against Iran after three commercial ships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. Explosions were reported near Iranian ports, while UKMTO confirmed three separate tanker attacks. No casualties were reported, but tensions in the strategically vital waterway have escalated sharply.
The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) chief Arsenio Dominguez has condemned the US strike on the tanker Settebello in the Gulf of Oman that killed three Indian crew members. India lodged a strong protest with the US Embassy, while the IMO called for a transparent investigation.
US CENTCOM disabled Gambia-flagged vessel M/V Lian Star with a Hellfire missile after ignoring warnings under Trump’s blockade. Five ships disabled, 116 redirected, costing Iran $4.8 billion in oil revenue. USS Spruance earlier intercepted Iranian cargo ship M/V Touska
US forces struck Iranian missile sites and mine-laying boats in southern Iran, threatening a fragile ceasefire. CENTCOM cited self-defense, while Trump said talks with Iran could yield a “Great Deal” or renewed conflict, urging regional nations to join accords
President Donald Trump has indicated that a second round of talks with Iran may take place in Islamabad within two days, crediting Pakistan Army chief General Asim Munir for facilitating dialogue. The US blockade of Iranian ports, enforced by CENTCOM with warships and aircraft, has pressured Tehran back to negotiations.
Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir is on his second visit to Washington since last month’s conflict with India. His schedule includes meetings with US military leaders, attending a CENTCOM change of command, and urging Pakistani diaspora to help attract investment.
The discussions focused on new initiatives under the ambit of existing bilateral defence cooperation mechanisms & strengthening the ongoing India-US defence engagements, the Defence officials added.
