The US military has launched a series of strikes against Iranian targets after three merchant ships were struck in the waters off Oman

Two tankers struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz, says United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre

Control over the Strait of Hormuz has remained a major point of contention between the U.S. and Iran even after the two countries signed a temporary peace deal last month.

US Central Command said the strikes were carried out “to impose heavy costs” for attacks on commercial shipping.