The conflict between the United States and Iran has entered another volatile phase after Washington launched a fresh round of military strikes in response to the deaths of two American service members in Jordan.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the latest operation was carried out on the orders of President Donald Trump and was aimed at weakening Iran’s ability to threaten international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes also targeted forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which the US blames for recent attacks on its military personnel in the region.
According to CENTCOM, the military action began at 6 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday. Earlier in the day, the command confirmed that two US troops had been killed in Jordan, while another service member remained unaccounted for following overnight attacks.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing them as heroes and stating that their sacrifice would strengthen America’s resolve.
Iranian media reported fresh explosions in Sirik, a strategically important coastal city overlooking the Strait of Hormuz. Reports also indicated that strikes extended to several locations across southern Iran, including Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island, Ahvaz and Bushehr. Iranian sources claimed that, apart from military installations, some residential areas were also affected during the attacks.
Tehran, meanwhile, reiterated that it would continue defending the Strait of Hormuz and vowed further retaliation against American military assets across the region. Iranian military officials claimed responsibility for attacks on US-linked facilities in Jordan, Kuwait and Bahrain, warning that any continued military pressure from Washington would invite a stronger response.
The latest escalation follows reports that Iranian strikes on Kuwait’s oil infrastructure a day earlier resulted in injuries and significant damage. Tensions were further heightened after Iranian leaders issued fresh warnings against continued US military operations, signalling that diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict remain under severe strain.
With both nations exchanging military action and strong rhetoric, concerns are growing that the confrontation could expand beyond its current scope, posing wider risks to regional stability and global energy security.
