Iran Expands Attacks in Gulf After US Strikes 140 Targets Following Hormuz Ship Assault

Following renewed overnight attacks, Iran announced on Sunday morning that it struck another vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting the United States to retaliate by bombing 140 Iranian military targets. The Iranian Revolutionary Guards stated that in response to the US airstrikes, multiple American targets in the Gulf were attacked, signaling an escalation in hostilities.

The conflict began when Tehran declared the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacked a ship during the night, vowing to keep the strait closed "until American interference in the region ceases." The US military reported precision strikes on 140 Iranian sites, including missile launchers, drones, naval targets, weapons depots, and communication facilities. This marked the largest single-night US attack on Iran in the past week, with over 300 targets hit in total during the week to degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian and commercial shipping.

Since May, 800 vessels have transited the strait under US escort, carrying 400 million barrels of oil. Iran has expanded its attacks to at least six Gulf countries, targeting bases it claims host US forces. These include Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. Saudi Arabia remains unscathed so far. Notably, Qatar, which hosts the strategic US base Al-Udeid and acts as a mediator, reported missile attacks and raised its security alert.

Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared on social media that "the era of one-sided agreements is over," warning the US to honor its commitments or face consequences. Efforts led by Oman and Qatar aim to prevent the collapse of a recent ceasefire memorandum between the US and Iran, which was intended to halt fighting for 60 days while negotiating a permanent deal. However, critical issues such as Iran's nuclear program, uranium stockpiles, sanctions, and control over the Strait of Hormuz remain unresolved.

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin condemned Iran's actions, stating on social media that Iran "made a bad choice and is now paying the price." Explosions were reported in several southern Iranian cities, including Bushehr and Bandar Abbas. The British Maritime Trade Operations agency confirmed the crew of the damaged ship in the strait abandoned it safely. The US demands Iran publicly commit to cease attacks on ships and allow free, safe passage through the strait without Iranian approval. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint for about one-fifth of global oil supplies, and prolonged disruption could spike energy prices and harm global trade.