The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly launched at least two missiles targeting commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. A US official informed journalist Barak Ravid that two commercial ships sustained significant damage from the attacks, but there were no reported casualties. The accuracy of these reports could not be independently confirmed by the Mirror.
Tensions between the US and Iran escalated following joint airstrikes by the US and Israel on key Iranian sites in late February. However, after prolonged conflict, both nations reached a tentative peace agreement. This agreement included the reopening of the critical Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s commitment to eliminate its enriched uranium stockpile, crucial for nuclear weapons development.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed on June 17 by the US and Iran, aiming to conclude the war within 60 days. Efforts are underway to negotiate a comprehensive peace deal to restore global shipping in the vital Strait of Hormuz and address ongoing disputes concerning Iran’s nuclear program.
As part of the MoU, Iran pledged to resume 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 the MoU’s signing.
The significance of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passageway for 20% of global oil trade, has been a focal point in the conflict, causing widespread market unease during its closure.