Iran closes Strait of Hormuz as US strikes Iran and Gulf bases
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the permanent closure of the Strait of Hormuz after a warning shot hit the Cyprus‑flagged container ship M/V GFS Galaxy, causing significant engine‑room damage and leaving a civilian crew member missing. The IRGC warned that the strait would stay closed “until further notice” and warned of “harsh response” to any retaliation.
In response, U.S. Central Command launched a third wave of airstrikes – striking roughly 140 Iranian military targets in Bandar Abbas, Sirik, Minab and other locations – describing the action as “imposing a heavy cost” on Iran’s ability to attack civilian vessels. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said, “Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay.”
Iran later fired missiles and drones at U.S. and allied sites in Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait and Jordan, with explosions reported in each country. The Revolutionary Guard said the attacks targeted “enemy bases” after the U.S. strikes.
The closure of the strait, a key conduit for about one‑fifth of global oil and gas shipments, raises concerns about worldwide energy prices and adds pressure to an already fragile cease‑fire that has held since February.