Screengrab from X video posted by US Centcom The United States launched fresh strikes on Iran early Sunday after Iranian forces attacked a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it struck about 140 targets across Iran, including missile and drone launch sites, air defence systems, coastal radar sites, ammunition depots, communication facilities and military boats. The military said the operation was aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to attack commercial vessels sailing through the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes followed an attack by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on the M/V GFS Galaxy, a Cyprus-flagged container ship transiting the strait. According to CENTCOM, the vessel caught fire and suffered significant engine room damage, leaving it unable to continue its voyage. One civilian crew member remains missing. The latest fighting has increased concerns over the security of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world’s traded oil and natural gas passed before the conflict began. It has also added pressure on negotiations aimed at reaching a lasting ceasefire. “Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay,” US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said in a post on X. CENTCOM said the latest operation was the third round of US strikes against Iran this week. It said fighter aircraft, naval vessels, one-way attack aerial drones and one-way attack sea drones were used to hit Iranian military targets. The military said it targeted missile and drone capabilities, coastal radar systems, air defence sites and small military boats used to support attacks on international shipping. “The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor for global trade. Iran does not control it,” CENTCOM said, adding that US forces remain prepared to ensure freedom of navigation for commercial shipping. CENTCOM also said Iran had been given another opportunity to comply wi