The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said U.S. forces have launched a third round of military strikes against Iran this week following an attack on a commercial vessel transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
In a statement, CENTCOM said Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked the Cyprus-flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy while it was passing through the strategic waterway.
According to the statement, one civilian crew member is missing following the attack. The vessel also sustained significant damage, including a fire and severe damage to its engine room, leaving it unable to continue its voyage.
CENTCOM said Iran had previously been given opportunities to demonstrate its commitment to an existing understanding following earlier attacks on commercial shipping but had once again failed to uphold its obligations.
The U.S. military said it is continuing operations aimed at degrading Iran's ability to target commercial vessels and civilian mariners in the region.
The statement added that the latest operation was carried out under the direction of the Commander in Chief of the U.S. Armed Forces.
