By VOE NEWS | July 9, 2026
The United States has launched a new round of large-scale military strikes against Iran after accusing Tehran of violating the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that had temporarily halted hostilities between the two countries. The renewed military action follows attacks on commercial vessels transiting the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil shipping routes. (Reuters)
According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces struck more than 80 military targets across southern Iran, including air defense systems, missile launch sites, drone facilities, naval infrastructure, and command centers believed to be involved in recent attacks on international shipping. U.S. officials described the operation as a direct response to what they called “unjustified Iranian aggression” against civilian vessels. (centcom.mil)
Speaking during the NATO summit in Turkey, President Donald Trump declared that the ceasefire agreement was effectively over, blaming Iran for breaching its commitments. He warned that additional strikes could follow if Tehran continues its attacks, stating that the United States would act to protect freedom of navigation in international waters. (The Guardian)
Iran has strongly condemned the U.S. operation, describing it as an act of aggression and promising a “crushing response.” Iranian officials have accused Washington of violating the same agreement and reported retaliatory drone and missile attacks targeting U.S. military facilities in the Gulf region, raising fears of a wider regional conflict. (The Guardian)
The renewed fighting has intensified concerns over global energy security. Oil prices climbed sharply as shipping companies reassessed the risks of operating through the Strait of Hormuz, a maritime chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne oil supply normally passes. Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption could have significant economic consequences worldwide. (AP News)
Diplomatic efforts to restore the ceasefire remain uncertain as both Washington and Tehran continue to exchange accusations over who bears responsibility for the collapse of the agreement.
Source: Reuters, AP, CENTCOM
Reporting by VOE News
