Tensions rose over the Strait of Hormuz after US Central Command said the key trade route is not controlled by Iran
Tensions between the United States and Iran climbed sharply on Monday as both countries claimed control over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
The dispute followed Iran’s attack on a container ship over the weekend, prompting the US military to launch strikes on dozens of Iranian military targets, including missile sites, radar systems and drone equipment.
Tensions rose over the strait after US Central Command said the key trade route is not controlled by Iran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps responded by calling the waterway “our territory.”
The exchange of military strikes fueled fears that the conflict could grow into a wider regional war. Alert sirens sounded in Bahrain and Kuwait, while Jordan said it intercepted several Iranian missiles before they caused damage.
The United Nations urged both sides to avoid further escalation, warning that a return to full-scale war would have devastating consequences.