Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has reportedly launched two missiles targeting commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to a US official speaking to Axios Global Affairs Correspondent Barak Ravid, two commercial ships sustained significant damage in the attacks, but no casualties were reported. The Mirror has not independently verified these claims.
Tensions between the US and Iran escalated following joint airstrikes by the US and Israel on key Iranian sites in late February. However, after months of conflict, both countries have come to an agreement aimed at reopening the vital Strait of Hormuz and ensuring Iran disposes of its enriched uranium reserves to prevent nuclear weapon development.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on June 17 by the US and Iran to cease hostilities within 60 days. Efforts are now underway to negotiate a lasting peace deal, reopen global shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and address ongoing disputes regarding Iran’s nuclear program.
As part of the MoU, Iran committed to restoring merchant ship movements between the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman to pre-war levels within 30 days. In return, the US agreed to lift the naval blockade on Iran and restore traffic to full capacity within 30 days of signing the MoU.
The strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz, through which 20% of the world’s oil supply passes, has been a focal point in the conflict, causing market disruptions when its closure was threatened.