U.S. strikes Iran missile launchers as Hormuz blockade widens

The United States struck Iran's coastal defense systems, storage sites and cruise missile launchers on Greater Tunb Island on Wednesday (15/7), amid a maritime blockade reimposed on ships traveling to and from Iranian ports. U.S. Central Command said the attack was aimed at weakening Iran's ability to target commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The same day, U.S. forces also fired Hellfire missiles at an empty tanker that was said to have ignored warnings while heading toward Kharg Island. At the same time, the International Maritime Organization reported that Iran attacked two ships in Hormuz, killing two crew members. Kuwait said one of its military vessels was hit by an Iranian missile and drone, while Bahrain intercepted an air attack and Jordan shot down four missiles.