Washington DC, July 15 -- The United States on Tuesday held Iran "accountable" for the deaths and injuries of commercial vessel crew members, with US Central Command (CENTCOM) alleging that Iranian forces had targeted seven commercial ships over the past week and launched attacks against neighbouring Gulf countries.

In a statement, CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said Iran had deliberately targeted civilian vessels, resulting in casualties among civilian crew members.

"Over the past seven days, Iran has intentionally targeted civilians across the region by attacking seven commercial ships, resulting in nearly a dozen civilian crew members killed, missing, or injured. Iranian forces have also launched dozens of missiles and drones ...