Trump accuses Iran of violating ceasefire by attacking ships in Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that Iran launched an attack using four drones against ships in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Trump, one drone severely damaged the upper deck of a cargo ship, but the vessel was able to continue its journey. The other three drones were shot down by US military forces. Trump described the action as a foolish breach of the ceasefire agreement.

The incident likely refers to the previous day's attack on the Taiwanese-flagged vessel Ever Lovely, operating under a Singapore flag. The ship was hit by an "unknown object" while transiting the Strait of Hormuz near the coast of Oman, using a route different from the one demanded by Iran. US officials confirmed to Reuters that Iran was responsible. There were no casualties, and the ship continued on its way.

This event highlights differing interpretations of the agreements regarding the opening of the Strait of Hormuz under a broader ceasefire arrangement. Iran insists that vessels must coordinate their passage with Tehran. Currently, Iran does not impose fees for coordination but does not rule out doing so in the future. Other ships are not guaranteed safety.

The United States and six Gulf states issued a joint statement on Friday condemning Iran's stance, declaring they will not tolerate any tolls for passage through the strait. The statement called for free, unconditional, and unrestricted navigation. Iran's Foreign Ministry reiterated in response that passage through the strait is impossible without coordination with Tehran.