US Conducts Ninth Consecutive Night of Strikes on Iranian Targets Amid Gulf Tensions

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it completed a ninth consecutive night of extensive airstrikes against Iranian military targets. These unprecedented attacks aim to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping and civilian mariners transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes targeted a wide range of Iranian assets, including military command centers, air defense sites, coastal observation posts, naval capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and communication networks. CENTCOM stated the operations were conducted under the direction of the US Commander-in-Chief.

In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed to have attacked two oil tankers navigating the Strait of Hormuz, alleging the vessels deviated from agreed routes. US President Donald Trump commented on the campaign, saying Iran has been severely damaged militarily, losing nearly all capabilities except for some missiles, drones, and limited production capacity. Trump also referenced recent US military casualties in Jordan and northern Iraq, dedicating the strikes to their memory.

Israeli and American security sources revealed that the US informed Israel of plans to escalate strikes against Iran in the coming days but currently prefers to keep Israel out of the ongoing Gulf escalation. However, strategic discussions between the two countries included concerns that Iran might retaliate by targeting Israel, which would provoke a strong Israeli response against Iranian interests. Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir stated that Israel is closely monitoring developments, maintaining high alertness, and prepared to respond forcefully to any aggression.