The U.S. Central Command announced on July 7 (local time) that it has launched powerful airstrikes against Iran in response to the country's attack on a merchant ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on the social media platform X, U.S. Central Command stated, "We have initiated a series of powerful airstrikes to ensure they pay a heavy price for targeting and attacking a merchant vessel carrying innocent civilians in international waters."

The command further emphasized, "Iran's attack is not only dangerous but also a clear violation of the ceasefire."

Earlier that day, the U.S. Department of the Treasury revoked sanctions waivers on the sale of Iranian crude oil for the same reason.

This is interpreted as a significant escalation in warnings, as the U.S. exerts simultaneous economic and military pressure in response to Iran's continued attacks on merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz.