The United States launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iran on Wednesday, targeting installations allegedly linked to threats against commercial shipping in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The operation marks another escalation in the ongoing conflict that has intensified tensions across the Middle East.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes were aimed at degrading Iranian military capabilities believed to be used in threatening vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest maritime trade routes.
US says strikes targeted military infrastructure
In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said the operation was carried out under the direction of the US President and focused on military assets used to endanger freedom of navigation through the international waterway.
The latest strikes come after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed and was accused of attacking several oil tankers in Omani waters. In response, Washington reinstated a naval blockade of Iranian ports and launched attacks on Iranian coastal defence systems, cruise missile storage facilities and launch sites.
Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has continued attacks on US military positions in the region, including reported strikes targeting bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan.
Iran claims hospital area was struck
Iranian state broadcaster IRIB claimed that the latest US strikes landed near Shahid Baghaei Hospital in Ahvaz, a medical facility known for treating children with cancer.
According to the broadcaster, the hospital was temporarily evacuated following the strikes, with families moving patients to safer locations.
The semi-official Fars News Agency also reported that several missiles struck areas close to the hospital, though there has been no independent verification of the claims. US officials have not commented on the allegations regarding the hospital.
Conflict continues to escalate
The latest developments mark the fifth consecutive day of hostilities between the two countries, raising concerns over regional stability and global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas shipments, making any disruption to the route a matter of international concern