US strikes Iran for first time in a month

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“Earlier today, US forces struck two Iranian launchers on Larak Island,” a US Central Command spokesman said, adding that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards “were observed preparing to launch rockets with sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz.”

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The strikes came shortly after the US-Iran war hit the six-month mark, and at a time when hostilities had been subsiding.

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In recent weeks, the Trump administration has prioritised “economic warfare” over military strikes against Iran.

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Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic sea lane through which one-fifth of the world’s oil passed before the United States and Israel started hostilities with airstrikes on Iran on February 28.

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“Last week, CENTCOM completed clearing sea mines from the strait’s international shipping routes,” said Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesman for US Central Command.

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“US forces are monitoring the area closely and remain prepared to protect the free flow of commerce through this essential waterway,” he said.

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Diplomatic efforts, spearheaded by mediators including Pakistan and Qatar, have tried for months to bring an end to the war to no avail.

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While a ceasefire was agreed in April and a memorandum of understanding towards a final peace deal was signed in June, no agreement has been forthcoming and Washington has since declared “economic warfare” against Tehran.

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A US naval counterblockade of Iranian ports is squeezing petrol supplies in Iran amid a shortfall of domestic production, as the US ramps up pressure on its foe.

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The April ceasefire put an end to the most intense fighting, but sporadic attacks, mainly around the Strait of Hormuz, have dimmed the prospects of a final peace agreement.

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In a statement on Friday, US Senator Jack Reed criticised President Donald Trump over the war.

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“Six months later, not a single objective has been achieved,” said Reed, the top Democrat on the Senate Armed Services Committee.

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“Indeed, he has weakened our position in the Middle East and the world significantly.”

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AFP

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