Iranian strikes target vessels near Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions

Iranian state media reported strikes on six vessels, including three commercial tankers and three United States ships, in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz. Teheran also claimed to have launched missiles targeting American aircraft carriers in response to recent strikes by US forces. Firefighters successfully extinguished a blaze on one damaged commercial vessel following the attacks.

United States President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the escalation, stating that "Hormuz is open" and describing Tehran as facing severe difficulties. However, intelligence reports from Washington warn that commanders within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps feel increasingly emboldened, exacerbating fears of wider military confrontation following the collapse of a prior June ceasefire.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.