The US and Iran have agreed to temporarily de-escalate tensions following recent strikes in and near the Strait of Hormuz, according to a US official. Ongoing technical discussions are planned regarding all aspects of the memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by both countries on June 17. The agreement allows vessels to resume normal operations in the area.
Iran has not officially responded to reports suggesting a cessation of strikes. The US conducted retaliatory airstrikes on Iran after a drone attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. This action followed US President Donald Trump’s characterization of the drone attack as a breach of the Ceasefire Agreement.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that airstrikes targeted Iranian drone and missile storage facilities as well as coastal radar installations. CENTCOM stated that Iranian forces used a one-way attack drone to strike the Ever Lovely, a Singapore-flagged vessel, as it left the Strait of Hormuz. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported the cargo ship was hit southeast of Oman’s port of Dahit.
The owner of the Ever Lovely, Evergreen, stated that the vessel was following the recommended route provided by UKMTO at the time of the attack. All crew members are safe, along with the ship and its cargo.
