US Launches 13th Consecutive Night of Strikes on Iran as Tehran Rejects Ceasefire Offer

The US military conducted its 13th consecutive night of airstrikes against Iran overnight Thursday to Friday, targeting Iranian military headquarters, drone storage facilities, communication networks, coastal surveillance sites, and naval capabilities. Explosions were reported in several southern and southwestern Iranian cities, with air defense systems activated in Tehran. The US Central Command stated the strikes aimed to reduce threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

These attacks followed President Donald Trump's statement considering a "massive attack larger than ever" against Iran. Meanwhile, Iran rejected a ceasefire proposal conveyed through Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaydi, who met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran. Iranian officials emphasized their unwillingness to accept a temporary agreement that does not address control over the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi criticized the US stance as "illogical and greedy," highlighting that the issue lies in America's perception rather than message delivery.

Iranian sources warned that escalating US strikes could provoke further regional escalation, including potential attacks on Tel Aviv and the use of Houthi forces against strategic shipping routes. Israeli intelligence is closely monitoring the situation, with Western intelligence suggesting Iran might attempt to directly involve Israel in the conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene the security cabinet, and several Israeli authorities have already opened public shelters, although Home Front Command has not issued new directives.