The United States launched fresh strikes against Iran and revoked a temporary licence allowing Iranian oil sales on Tuesday, after three commercial vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, in a sharp escalation that threatened to unravel last month’s fragile ceasefire.US Central Command said American forces had begun military operations against Iran in response to attacks on commercial shipping transiting one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.“US Central Command forces have begun launching a series of powerful strikes against Iran to impose heavy costs for targeting and attacking commercial shipping,” Central Command said in a statement.The military did not disclose what targets had been hit. Iranian media reported explosions near the port area of Sirik on the country’s southern coast.02:08Trump sets date for Hormuz Strait reopening, while Israel says it is not bound by peace dealThe military response came hours after Washington moved to restore sanctions on Iranian oil by revoking a temporary waiver granted under an interim agreement reached following the end of hostilities last month.