US strikes Iran missile sites as Hormuz ceasefire lapses

The US carried out overnight strikes against Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz, officials said Wednesday, after a ceasefire that had restrained the standoff at least temporarily lapsed. Reaction pending, with markets and regional governments focused on whether Iran answers by threatening shipping or US military assets.

The strikes were launched from land and sea, officials said, broadening the operational footprint from earlier action this week. The targets included missiles capable of threatening American aircraft carriers, along with drones and other systems tied to the Hormuz corridor.

Iran missiles near Hormuz

Officials described the US military posture as wait-and-see after the strikes, with commanders monitoring Iran’s response before deciding on further action. They cautioned that additional strikes remain possible if Iranian forces prepare attacks on US assets or shipping lanes.

The action follows escalating rhetoric from President Trump, who said earlier this week that the interim agreement ending the war was over. He also raised the possibility of a larger operation, including a potential strike on Kharg Island, Iran’s key oil export terminal.

Iran has signalled that further US action could draw a wider response, including closing the Strait entirely and expanding retaliatory targets. If Iran moves against Hormuz traffic, the shock would run first through geopolitical risk pricing, then energy supply expectations and shipping insurance costs.

Through July 9, 2026, the key test is whether Iran limits its response to threats and signalling, or shifts toward action that forces another US strike cycle.