Washington/Tehran: The United States has launched another wave of military operations against Iran, marking the 10th consecutive night of strikes as tensions in the Gulf continue to escalate. The latest attacks come amid growing concerns over the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, rising oil prices and expanding regional instability.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the fresh strikes were aimed at weakening Iran’s military capabilities that it alleges have been used to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. According to the US military, the operation focused on command facilities, coastal surveillance systems, missile launch sites, drone infrastructure and communication networks.
The renewed offensive follows the death of another American service member and recent Iranian attacks targeting US allies, including Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain. US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning, stating that every attack on American troops would be met with a far stronger response.
US officials also confirmed that the President is expected to attend a ceremony at Dover Air Force Base to receive the remains of at least one fallen service member.
Iran Reports Casualties, Infrastructure Hit
Iranian state media reported that American airstrikes struck multiple locations, including areas near Tabriz, where at least one person was killed. Additional attacks were reported in several southern provinces, including Hormozgan, Khuzestan and Sistan-Baluchistan, regions that host strategic ports and military installations.
The Iranian government accused Washington of expanding its campaign to include critical civilian infrastructure, warning that such actions could further destabilise the region.
Shipping Crisis Deepens
The conflict has significantly disrupted maritime movement through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil transit routes. Maritime monitoring agencies also reported another commercial vessel being struck near the Gulf, adding to growing concerns over the safety of international shipping.
Separately, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement announced plans to target Saudi shipping routes in the Red Sea, opening another potential front in the regional conflict. The move could further complicate global energy supplies, as Saudi Arabia has increasingly relied on Red Sea routes following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The prolonged conflict has already pushed global crude oil prices higher, with Brent crude remaining above 88 dollars per barrel, while fuel prices continue to rise in several countries.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Despite the military escalation, diplomatic channels remain active. Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni arrived in Pakistan for talks with senior Pakistani leaders, as Islamabad continues efforts to revive negotiations between Tehran and Washington.
The diplomatic initiative follows the collapse of a temporary ceasefire agreement reached last month, which unravelled after both sides resumed attacks on military installations and strategic infrastructure.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Washington remains open to dialogue, provided negotiations are meaningful.
“If genuine diplomacy becomes possible, it would be a positive development,” Rubio said, while acknowledging that current circumstances remain far from a negotiated settlement.
Regional Uncertainty Grows
Iranian authorities said the latest round of American strikes has left dozens dead and hundreds injured. Since hostilities resumed in late February, casualties have continued to mount on both sides, while governments across the region remain on high alert over fears that the conflict could spread beyond the Gulf.
With military operations continuing and diplomatic efforts yet to yield a breakthrough, international observers warn that the crisis is entering an increasingly dangerous phase with implications for regional security, global trade and energy markets.
