US launches fresh strikes on Iran; Tehran targets American assets in Gulf states

The United States launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iran on Monday, escalating tensions over the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Central Command (Centcom) reported hitting "dozens of targets at multiple locations" with precision munitions, aiming to degrade Iran's ability to attack international shipping. The strikes targeted air-defense systems, radar sites, missile and drone capabilities, and small boats, utilizing fighter aircraft, naval vessels, and drones for the first time.

“

Centcom forces struck Iranian military air-defence systems, coastal radar sites, missile and drone capabilities, and small boats using US fighter aircraft, naval vessels, one-way attack aerial drones, and one-way attack sea drones for the first time.

Centcom asserted that US forces are prepared to ensure freedom of navigation despite Iran's "continued unwarranted aggression." The Iranian state media, however, reported that the US strikes hit an agricultural water pumping station in Mahshahr city, resulting in one death and four injuries, according to the deputy governor of Khuzestan province.

“

Centcom reiterated its assertion that Iran did not control Hormuz and US forces “are postured and prepared to ensure that freedom of navigation remains available to commercial shipping despite Iran’s continued unwarranted aggression, harassment, threats, and arbitrary declarations”.

In retaliation, Iran's Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) announced strikes on US military targets and bases in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman. State media cited IRGC statements claiming attacks on Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan, a US drone command center in Bahrain, and airbases in Kuwait, including Ali Al Salem and Ahmad Al Jaber. The IRGC stated its missile and drone attacks set fire to fuel storage tanks and ammunition depots on the Jordanian base.

“

The US strikes hit an agricultural water pumping station in Mahshahr city in southwestern Iran, according to state media. One person was killed and four others injured.

This exchange marks a significant flare-up, undermining an interim agreement between Washington and Tehran. The conflict's impact on global economic stability, particularly concerning oil prices and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, remains a critical concern.

“

they had attacked Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan, a US military drone command centre in Bahrain and airbases including Ali Al Salem in Kuwait.