Tensions in the Middle East have escalated again after reports that three commercial vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, just hours after US President Donald Trump said the US-Iran ceasefire would be extended.
Maritime security sources say the first ship came under fire from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Iranian-linked reports also claim the same force was responsible for striking two additional vessels, with two of the ships later reportedly seized and redirected toward Iran’s coastline.
One of the targeted vessels, a Greek-flagged ship identified as Epaminondas, is said to have suffered serious damage after being hit following what officials described as warnings issued by Iranian forces.
Another ship, the MSC Francesca, a Panama-flagged container vessel, was also reportedly struck while sailing south out of the strait toward the Gulf of Oman, sustaining hull and accommodation damage.
A maritime intelligence firm told BBC Verify that the MSC Francesca was ordered to stop and anchor before it was attacked about six nautical miles off the Iranian coast.
Iranian media, however, present a different version of events, saying the ships ignored warnings before being targeted.
The developments come amid growing confusion over diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran.
Trump announced the ceasefire extension while also keeping a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route that carries a significant share of the world’s oil.
But uncertainty remains over planned talks in Pakistan, with US Vice-President JD Vance reportedly not departing as expected.
Iranian officials have also cast doubt on the process, with one adviser dismissing the ceasefire extension as a “delay tactic” rather than a meaningful breakthrough.
The Strait of Hormuz itself has become increasingly volatile, with shipping now reduced to minimal traffic as safety concerns grow.
