Iran has stated that the United States has violated the fragile ceasefire arrangement following recent military actions along its southern coastline. The Iranian government issued a stern warning, indicating that it is prepared to retaliate against any future assaults. This statement was prompted by the US’s execution of one of its largest military operations targeting Iranian assets in recent weeks.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest offensive hit over 80 sites, including critical air defence installations, radar facilities, command-and-control hubs, and around 60 vessels affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran described these actions as a breach of commitments established under an interim agreement.

Further, Iranian officials expressed concern over the US Treasury’s decision to withdraw a 60-day licence, which had permitted Iran to sell oil internationally using US dollars. They claimed that Washington had reneged on its obligations, asserting that the combination of military strikes and economic sanctions constitutes a violation of the agreements governing maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.

US Justifies Strikes as Protective Measure

The US has defended its military operations, declaring they were a response to Iranian assaults on three commercial oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM maintained that the strikes aimed to diminish Iran’s capability to pose a threat to this vital maritime corridor, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil supply flows. Disruption of this route raises significant concerns for global energy markets.

CENTCOM also stated its forces are ready to hold Iran accountable should it fail to adhere to any agreements. Following the airstrikes, Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in locations including Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and Qeshm Island. Visual content circulating on social media allegedly depicted explosions in these areas.

In response, Iran’s Foreign Ministry warned neighbouring nations along the southern Persian Gulf coast against permitting US operations from their territories. It specified that any support for hostile actions against Iran would be construed as participation in aggression. The ministry emphasised Iran’s right to defend its sovereignty according to Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.

Potential Impact on Future Peace Agreements

The recent escalation of tensions has raised questions regarding the future of the interim peace agreement established just weeks prior. US President Donald Trump, during a NATO summit held in Turkey, stated that the memorandum of understanding with Iran had effectively ceased to be valid.

Trump expressed that he no longer wished to engage with Iran, labelling its leadership with derogatory terms and claiming they engaged in deceitful practices. His statements have caused fluctuations in global financial markets, notably resulting in a more than three per cent increase in oil prices, amid concerns that renewed hostilities could disrupt global energy supplies.

The military confrontations occur at a sensitive juncture, as discussions for a permanent peace accord have stalled during Iran’s observance of mourning ceremonies for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. With ongoing military strikes and the rising tension in dialogue, the chances for reviving peaceful negotiations have become increasingly precarious.

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