DID Press: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly targeted two commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz early Tuesday, shortly after the expiration of a one-week pause in hostilities, amid escalating tensions over increased US military presence in regional waters.
According to a US official, the missile attack occurred near the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, July 7, and caused no casualties. The incident followed the end of a temporary de-escalation arrangement between Tehran and Washington.
Iran had previously warned that increased commercial shipping through routes protected by the US military in Omani waters could undermine regional security, urging vessels to use what it described as established navigation routes approved by Tehran. Similar warnings had also been broadcast over maritime radio channels.
Iranian officials have repeatedly maintained that security in the Strait of Hormuz should be ensured by regional countries and have rejected any foreign military presence in the strategic waterway.
In a separate development, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a tanker in Omani waters was struck by an unidentified projectile, causing a fire on board. Reports suggest one of the affected vessels may have been the Al Rekayyat, operated by Qatar-based shipping company Nakilat. Crew members reported damage to the upper section of the engine room and heavy smoke but said all personnel were safe.
The incident comes ahead of a NATO meeting in Ankara, where maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz is expected to feature prominently on the agenda. Tehran has reiterated that it will oppose any foreign interference in the waterway and respond to perceived threats against regional security.