US, Iran trade fresh strikes as Hormuz conflict escalates

The United States and Iran engaged in a fresh exchange of strikes on Thursday, intensifying a conflict centered on the vital Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil and gas. The renewed fighting, now in its sixth day, occurred despite a preliminary deal in June aimed at ending the war.

US forces launched attacks on Iranian military targets in multiple locations, including Bandar Abbas, with the stated aim of degrading Iran's ability to threaten maritime traffic in the strait. Central Command (CENTCOM) also reported earlier strikes on coastal defense and cruise missile sites on Greater Tunb Island. Iran's official news agency confirmed explosions in several areas and the activation of air defenses in parts of Tehran.

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Next week it gets really bad for them.

In retaliation, US allies in the Gulf reported attacks, with Kuwait intercepting Iranian drones and Bahrain sounding air raid sirens. Iran's military claimed to have targeted US military facilities in Jordan with drones, citing "enemy aggression." The US military also reported disabling an empty oil tanker attempting to break Iran's naval blockade. Meanwhile, in Iraq, the US-led coalition downed eight explosive-laden drones over Erbil, prompting condemnation from the Iraqi Prime Minister.

Despite the escalating hostilities, mediated talks between the US and Iran have not been formally abandoned. US President Donald Trump issued a threat of further escalation if Tehran does not return to negotiations, while Iran's top negotiator warned that any agreement would be meaningless if its terms are not implemented and Iran derives no benefit.

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a memorandum of understanding only has meaning when its clauses are valid and being implemented. If Iran is not to derive any benefit from the memorandum of understanding, we have no reason to adhere.