Iran Claims Missile, Drone Attacks on US Targets Amid Regional Tensions

Iran announced it launched missile and drone attacks targeting American bases and interests in the region, with the Tasnim agency calling it a "decisive operation." The Fars News agency reported strikes on "enemy positions." These announcements coincided with reports of new explosions in the Strait of Hormuz, though their scale and consequences remain unknown. The U.S. military confirmed conducting "defensive" strikes on several sites in Bandar Abbas, Iran, with explosions also reported in Chabahar and on Qeshm Island. Washington has not confirmed the Iranian reports of U.S. missile strikes near Ahvaz.

In other developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the Shin Bet and IDF for the "audacious operation" that led to the arrest of the head of Hamas's internal security in Gaza. Netanyahu stated the individual was involved in concealing and moving hostages, protecting Hamas leadership, and rebuilding the group's capabilities. Hamas condemned an Israeli special forces operation west of Gaza City, calling it a violation of a ceasefire agreement, but did not mention the arrest of its security chief. The group urged the U.S. and mediators to pressure Israel to cease its strikes.

The IDF reported destroying Hezbollah weapons and infrastructure in southern Lebanon, including guided anti-tank missiles and rockets, and stated it would continue to act against threats while adhering to the ceasefire. Defense Minister Israel Katz warned of severe retaliation for any attacks from Gaza, stating, "For every hair that would fall from the head of an Israeli child... we will bring down the heads of the Hamas leaders in Gaza." The IDF also confirmed strikes in Gaza to "neutralize threats against security forces," with Palestinian media reporting at least one person killed and several injured.

Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian thanked Vladimir Putin for Russia's support against sanctions, stating, "Together, we can resist American unilateralism." Pezeshkian also expressed readiness for Iran to return to a June agreement with the U.S. if Washington reciprocates. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump dismissed the idea of using nuclear weapons against Iran, calling it "stupid" given Iran's alleged military defeat.

Separately, a tanker reported being hit by three projectiles while leaving the Strait of Hormuz. In other news, devastating floods in Nepal have claimed over 1,000 lives, and South Korea indicated signs of potential dialogue resumption between North Korea and the U.S. The head of Israel's Shin Bet reportedly made a discreet visit to the U.S. to discuss sensitive matters with the FBI.