[Anchor]

The United States has launched airstrikes against Iran in response to the Iranian attack on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran has warned of retaliation, stating it will take decisive measures to protect its national security.

Reporter Park Won-gyeong has the story.

[Reporter]

The U.S. Central Command officially announced the resumption of airstrikes against Iran via social media.

Three oil tankers were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz on July 6. The U.S. Central Command stated that this action is intended to ensure that Iran pays a heavy price for targeting commercial vessels carrying innocent civilians in international waters.

The command specifically emphasized that Iran's actions were unjustified and constituted a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement.

The United States has also resumed economic sanctions against Iran.

Reuters reported, citing an official, that the U.S. administration is revoking the general license that had authorized the sale of Iranian crude oil.

This comes just 15 days after the U.S. Department of the Treasury issued a 60-day temporary license on June 22 allowing the sale of Iranian crude oil.

Immediately following the U.S. military's announcement of the airstrikes, Iranian media reported a series of explosions in the Strait of Hormuz region in southern Iran, including on Qeshm Island and in Sirik.

In a statement released shortly after the U.S. airstrikes, the Iranian Foreign Ministry warned, "Iran sternly warns of the consequences of the U.S. violation of the provisions," adding that it "will take decisive measures to protect its national interests and national security."

Regarding the U.S. withdrawal of the sanctions waiver on crude oil sales, Iran protested, claiming the move violates the memorandum of understanding between the two countries for ending the war, and that the U.S. must be held responsible for the consequences.

Iran further emphasized that it would take all measures it deems necessary to protect its national interests.

[Video Editing: Park Chun-bae]