Trump Threatens Strikes on Iranian Infrastructure as U.S. Reinstates Port Blockade

The United States has escalated its actions against Iran, with President Donald Trump issuing a stark warning of potential strikes on critical Iranian infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, should diplomatic efforts fail by the end of next week. This threat comes amid heightened tensions and military maneuvers in the region.

In parallel, the U.S. military officially reinstated the blockade of Iranian ports situated near the Strait of Hormuz. This measure, effective Tuesday evening, targets vessels either arriving at or departing from Iranian ports. The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) stated that over 20 U.S. Navy warships and hundreds of military aircraft are currently deployed across the Middle East to support this operation.

Adding to the escalating situation, Iran's state media reported a series of new explosions occurring overnight. These blasts were noted near the strategic port city of Bandar Abbas and on Qeshm Island, both located in proximity to the Strait of Hormuz. Further explosions were reported in the southwestern city of Ahvaz.

The U.S. military confirmed launching a new series of strikes against Tehran earlier on Tuesday. These actions were reportedly aimed at preventing Iran from attacking vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil transport. The U.S. military stated its strikes began at 7 p.m. GMT (9 p.m. in Switzerland).

In addition to military actions, the U.S. government announced an intensification of sanctions targeting Iran's oil sector. These sanctions are directed at approximately fifty individuals and entities associated with the network of oil magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani. Meanwhile, Israel has indicated its readiness to proceed with troop withdrawal from two areas in Lebanon, with discussions scheduled to resume on Wednesday.