Iran on Friday accused the United States of violating the existing ceasefire after American forces allegedly targeted Iranian oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman, warning that Tehran would deliver a “crushing response” to any further military action, reported ANI.
Iran accuses US of targeting oil tankers
According to Iranian state media, a spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters claimed that US forces attacked an Iranian oil tanker travelling near the port city of Jask towards the Strait of Hormuz, reported ANI.
Iran also alleged that another vessel entering the Strait near Fujairah was targeted as part of ongoing American naval operations in the region.
Tehran alleges strikes on civilian coastal areas
The Iranian military spokesperson further alleged that airstrikes were carried out on civilian areas along the coasts of Bandar Khamir, Sirik and Qeshm Island with the cooperation of certain regional countries, reported ANI.
Iran described the operations as aggressive and accused Washington of violating the ceasefire arrangement that had been intended to reduce tensions in the region.
US previously confirmed action against tanker
The accusations come days after US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American naval forces had fired on an Iranian-flagged oil tanker identified as M/T Hasna in the Gulf of Oman.
According to the US military, the tanker failed to comply with repeated warnings issued by American forces while travelling towards an Iranian port. CENTCOM said US aircraft disabled the vessel’s rudder after the crew allegedly ignored instructions, reported ANI.
Reports emerge of fresh US strikes in southern Iran
Meanwhile, reports citing a senior US official claimed that American forces conducted strikes on areas near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm port in southern Iran following reports of explosions near key maritime routes.
The reports suggested the strikes were limited in nature and did not necessarily indicate the collapse of the existing ceasefire arrangement between the two sides.
Iran claims retaliatory action against US vessels
The spokesperson for Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters stated that Iranian armed forces had responded immediately by targeting US military vessels positioned east of the Strait of Hormuz and south of the port of Chabahar, reported ANI.
Iran claimed the retaliatory strikes caused significant damage to American military assets, although there was no immediate confirmation from US officials regarding the alleged attacks, reported ANI.
Tehran warns of stronger military response
Iran warned that any future aggression would be met with a decisive response. The statement asserted that the Islamic Republic remains fully prepared to confront military pressure and would respond forcefully without hesitation if attacks continue, reported ANI.
The latest developments have further escalated tensions in the Gulf region, where ongoing military deployments and naval operations around the Strait of Hormuz continue to raise concerns over regional stability, global trade and energy security.
(With inputs from ANI)