The United States has launched a series of military airstrikes in Iran following attacks on three commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the operation began on Wednesday in response to the incidents that damaged the vessels within 24 hours on Monday and Tuesday. CENTCOM stated that the strikes aim to make Iran pay a “heavy price” for targeting civilian-operated ships in international waters.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that three tankers were damaged in the attacks. Iran has not claimed responsibility for the incidents. CENTCOM described Iran’s actions as unjustified, dangerous, and a clear violation of the ceasefire. Qatar and Saudi Arabia condemned the attacks, reporting that one tanker from each of their countries was hit while transiting the area.

Earlier on Tuesday, the United States revoked a waiver that had temporarily eased oil sanctions on Iran, signaling a further escalation of tensions between the two nations.