Washington DC: The United States has launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iran, targeting facilities linked to the country’s military operations after accusing Tehran of threatening commercial shipping in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
The strikes, carried out by the US Central Command (CENTCOM), mark another escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran, raising fresh concerns over regional stability and global energy supplies.
US targets Iranian military infrastructure
According to CENTCOM, the operation was ordered by US President Donald Trump to weaken Iran’s ability to attack civilian vessels and commercial shipping passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
The US military said the strikes targeted military infrastructure associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including missile and drone facilities, communication networks, ammunition storage sites, coastal surveillance systems and naval capabilities.
CENTCOM also claimed that Iranian forces had recently targeted commercial ships in the waterway and that US forces intercepted an Iranian cruise missile and a one-way attack drone before launching the latest operation.
Iran condemns attacks
Following the strikes, Iranian state media reported explosions in several locations across Hormozgan province, including Bandar Abbas, Jask, Qeshm and Sirik.
Iranian authorities said there were no civilian casualties or damage to residential infrastructure, although a telecommunications tower in Sirik was reportedly hit.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry strongly condemned the attacks, calling them a violation of international law and accusing the United States of undermining diplomatic efforts and increasing instability across West Asia.
Strait of Hormuz remains global flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime routes, carrying around 20 per cent of global oil and gas supplies.
Any disruption in the waterway can significantly affect global energy markets and international shipping.
President Trump said diplomatic efforts with Iran had effectively collapsed following recent confrontations, maintaining that US military action was necessary to protect freedom of navigation and ensure the safety of commercial vessels.
The latest exchange of military action has intensified fears of a broader regional conflict, with global attention now focused on the impact the escalating tensions could have on oil prices, international trade and security in the Middle East