US Conducts Ninth Wave of Strikes on Iran Amid Rising Tensions in Strait of Hormuz

The United States military announced it has completed its ninth consecutive round of strikes against Iran, targeting military command centers and air defense sites. The strikes occurred overnight as part of ongoing operations in the region. President Donald Trump stated that the attacks were carried out "very strongly" in honor of three American patriots recently killed, emphasizing that Iran has been "very, very badly damaged" militarily and now retains only limited missile, drone, and production capabilities. Trump also asserted US control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reported that two oil tankers were bombed while attempting to pass through the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that the passage would remain unsafe for petrochemical shipments as long as US actions continue in the area. Additionally, a British military report confirmed a ship was seen on fire near Oman's coast in the Strait, though the cause remains unknown.

Iranian sources reported US strikes in the northwestern cities of Tabriz and Mahabad. The US Central Command confirmed the initiation of the latest strike wave overnight. Meanwhile, the Israeli military confirmed intercepting an unidentified aircraft near the Syrian border and is investigating the source. Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir held a situation assessment with senior commanders, stating that alongside ongoing counterterrorism operations in the West Bank, the IDF is closely monitoring developments in Iran and maintaining high alertness for immediate combat readiness.

US Secretary of State reiterated openness to a diplomatic solution with Iran despite the escalating military actions. The situation remains tense with continued military engagements and strategic maneuvers in the region.