US Conducts Multi-Hour Strikes on Iran Following Deadly Attack in Strait of Hormuz

The US military completed a series of airstrikes against Iran lasting approximately five hours, targeting military sites across several Iranian locations including Bushehr, Chabahar, Jask, Konarak, Abu Musa, and Bandar Abbas. The strikes aimed to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping routes, employing precision munitions against Iranian defense systems, missile and drone sites, and naval capabilities. The US Central Command stated that over 50,000 American troops remain deployed throughout the Middle East, maintaining readiness.

Earlier, Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed they attacked two tankers that ignored repeated warnings and entered a mined route in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in damage and disabling the vessels. The Guards warned that cooperating with the US would only lead to regret, losses, and a prolonged closure of the strait, potentially triggering a global energy crisis.

The UAE Ministry of Defense reported that Iran fired missiles at two Emirati tankers in the southern shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz within Omani territorial waters. One crew member, an Indian national, was killed and eight others were injured, four seriously. Fires on the vessels were controlled by emergency teams. The British Maritime Trade Center also reported a security incident near Oman, though no casualties or environmental damage were noted.

Iranian state media confirmed explosions in Bandar Abbas and Kish Island, with additional blasts reported in the Strait of Hormuz area. The US Central Command announced the start of a third consecutive night of strikes against Iran, emphasizing the intent to impose a heavy toll on Iranian forces and prevent attacks on civilians and commercial shipping.

Former US President Donald Trump stated in a phone interview that the US would strike Iran strongly and mentioned a possible target, Mount Machouq, a suspected undeclared nuclear site. He also commented on his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, praising his work despite occasional disagreements.

The UAE condemned the "blatant attack" as a serious violation of international law threatening regional security and stability, reserving the right to respond to the escalation to protect its sovereignty and citizens.