US Bombs Iran Targets Again; Tehran Denounces Accord Violation, Vows Response

The United States military struck multiple targets in Iran for a second consecutive day, escalating tensions in the region. The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) stated that the strikes were a direct response to Iran's continued aggression against commercial shipping, including a drone attack on the oil tanker M/T Kiku earlier in the day.

Centcom reported that U.S. military aircraft targeted Iranian military surveillance infrastructure, communication systems, air defense sites, drone storage facilities, and mine-laying systems. The command asserted that commercial vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continues and that U.S. forces remain vigilant. This action follows U.S. airstrikes on June 27, which were themselves a response to Iran's attack on the M/V Ever Lovely.

Iran condemned the U.S. actions as a "flagrant violation" of a recently concluded ceasefire protocol and the United Nations Charter. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced strikes on U.S. positions in the region, warning of a broader response if aggression continues. Bahrain also reported being targeted by Iranian drones, accusing Tehran of sabotaging peace efforts.

The exchange of fire renews doubts about maintaining the open passage of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil and gas trade. The escalating conflict occurs as both nations are engaged in negotiations aimed at reaching a final agreement.