WASHINGTON, June 27, 2026 — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that U.S. forces carried out airstrikes against Iranian missile and drone storage facilities, as well as coastal radar positions, on June 26. According to CENTCOM, the operation was a direct response to Iran's one-way drone attack on the Singapore-flagged cargo ship M/V Ever Lovely in the Strait of Hormuz a day earlier.
CENTCOM described the strikes as a "powerful response," stating that the operation targeted military assets linked to attacks on commercial shipping and was intended to support freedom of navigation through one of the world's most important maritime trade routes.
Drone Attack on M/V Ever Lovely
The attack took place on June 25 as the M/V Ever Lovely was exiting the Strait of Hormuz along the Omani coast. According to CENTCOM, the vessel was targeted by Iranian one-way attack drones while transiting the international waterway.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore said the ship sustained minor damage to its bridge structure. All 21 crew members were unharmed, and the vessel safely completed its transit before continuing its scheduled commercial voyage.
Reports indicate that four drones were launched during the incident. U.S. forces intercepted three of them before they reached their targets, while one drone struck the vessel, causing limited structural damage.
The M/V Ever Lovely, operated by Evergreen Marine, had been following a route recommended by maritime authorities. Iran had previously warned that vessels using routes not approved by Tehran would bear responsibility for any consequences.
CENTCOM Says Attack Violated Ceasefire
CENTCOM stated that the drone strike constituted a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran and undermined freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The incident also disrupted a 14-point memorandum of understanding signed earlier this month by Washington and Tehran, which was intended to ensure 60 days of toll-free and secure navigation through the strategic waterway.
Before the U.S. strikes, President Donald Trump described the attack on the M/V Ever Lovely as a "foolish violation" of the ceasefire. CENTCOM said the June 26 operation was carried out to enforce the agreement and ensure its provisions remain in effect.
Maritime Security Remains a Priority
The Strait of Hormuz remains a vital corridor for international commerce and global energy supplies. Following the attack, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) temporarily suspended its evacuation framework for stranded seafarers until maritime security conditions improve.
CENTCOM said U.S. forces will continue coordinating safe passage for commercial vessels transiting the strait and remain present in the region to support maritime security. The command did not provide further details on the extent of damage to the Iranian targets or report any casualties from the airstrikes.
The latest exchange underscores the continued security challenges facing one of the world's busiest shipping lanes despite recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.
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