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The United States launched a seven-hour wave of military strikes on dozens of Iranian military targets near the Strait of Hormuz and along Iran’s coastline, hours after reimposing a naval blockade on vessels travelling to and from Iranian ports.
The operation marks a significant escalation in tensions between Washington and Tehran.
According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American fighter jets, drones and naval vessels carried out precision strikes against Iranian missile launch sites, drone facilities, naval assets and coastal defence systems.
The operation concluded at 10:00 PM ET and was aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and civilian maritime traffic in the region.
CENTCOM also confirmed that the naval blockade came into effect at 04:00 PM ET, with more than 20 US Navy warships and hundreds of military aircraft deployed across the Middle East.
The command stated that US forces remain prepared for additional operations if required.
CENTCOM Commander Admiral Brad Cooper said the latest action followed a series of Iranian attacks on commercial vessels and neighbouring Gulf countries. He alleged that Iranian forces targeted seven commercial ships over the past week, resulting in civilian casualties, while also launching missiles and drones towards Gulf states.
US President Donald Trump warned that military operations would intensify unless Iran returns to negotiations.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump said the US would target Iran’s power plants and bridges next week if Tehran failed to reach a deal. He added that American forces would continue military operations until they achieved their objectives.
Trump also said the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping but closed to Iranian vessels, while indicating that further action against Iran’s energy infrastructure remains a possibility.
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