Iran's military fired at least two missiles at commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Monday night, two U.S. officials told Axios. The attack came hours after a one-week agreement between the U.S. and Iran on halting attacks in the strait expired. Both vessels suffered significant damages, but no casualties were reported, according to a U.S. official.
The resumption of attacks puts a memorandum of understanding signed less than three weeks ago at risk of unraveling. Axios reports the U.S. is likely to retaliate with strikes against Iranian targets. The incident threatens to reignite tensions in a critical waterway through which about one-fifth of global oil supplies pass.
The U.K. maritime trade operation confirmed receiving a report from a tanker traveling south near the Omani coast that was hit by an unknown projectile, causing a fire. A U.S. official said another commercial ship was struck by an Iranian missile. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the projectile.
A round of indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran in Doha last week ended without much progress on the Strait of Hormuz issue. The breakdown in negotiations and the renewed attacks raise the prospect of a broader military confrontation. Shipping companies may now reconsider transit through the strait, potentially disrupting energy markets.
The Iranian government has not yet commented on the reported attacks. Analysts suggest the move may be aimed at strengthening Tehran's negotiating position ahead of any renewed diplomatic efforts.