US Military Completes New Wave of Strikes Against Iranian Targets Amid Rising Tensions

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it has completed a new wave of military strikes against Iran, targeting Iranian command centers, air defense sites, missile and drone launch capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities. The strikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, included precise munitions hitting multiple locations, notably Bandar Abbas. Following the US announcement, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have retaliated by attacking a US radar installation at a base in Kuwait using missiles and drones.

Earlier reports from Iran indicated activation of Tehran's air defense systems in response to hostile threats, while Bahrain and Kuwait reported air raid sirens and defensive measures against hostile drones overnight. Additionally, the US disabled an Iranian-bound oil tanker after it ignored multiple warnings, firing Hellfire missiles to stop the vessel from breaching the US blockade.

President Trump confirmed the release of an American citizen detained in Iran in 2024, calling it a positive gesture. He also warned Iran to behave appropriately, stating he dislikes giving deadlines but implied Iran understands the consequences of their actions. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf responded by rejecting adherence to any memorandum of understanding with the US unless Iran benefits, emphasizing Iran's national security depends on maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz.

The escalating exchanges come amid ongoing tensions over freedom of navigation in the strategic Strait of Hormuz and broader US-Iran confrontations. The US military stated the strikes aim to counter Iranian military capabilities threatening free maritime passage. The situation remains volatile with both sides signaling readiness for further actions.