Massive US Military Strikes Target Iranian Installations
The United States has launched a series of major military strikes against Iranian targets, with a US official describing the operation to Axios as 'four or five times bigger in scope and power' than the previous assaults conducted ten days ago. The official warned that the operation could persist for several more hours, marking the most intense American attacks on Iran since the April ceasefire.
Punishment, Not Proportional: US Official
A separate US official told CNN that the operation was intended as 'punishment, not proportional,' indicating that the conclusion of the strikes was not imminent. The official stated, 'This is punishment. It won't be over for a bit.' The US military confirmed that airstrikes targeted Iranian military installations near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, initiated after renewed aggression against commercial vessels in the waterway.
Targets Include Air Defense, Missile Sites, and Ports
A US official detailed that the targeted sites included Iranian air defense systems, coastal surveillance infrastructure, surface-to-air missile positions, anti-ship cruise missile locations, drone launch facilities, and port infrastructure. Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in the port cities of Bandar Abbas and Sirik, as well as blasts on Qeshm Island. Fires broke out at the Sirik pier and the Shahid Haqqani Port in Bandar Abbas.
Retaliation for Attacks on Commercial Vessels
The United States Central Command stated that the aerial strikes were direct retaliation for Iranian assaults on three commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. The command issued a stern warning, declaring that Washington would impose 'heavy costs' on any entities targeting international shipping.
Iran Accuses US of Breaching Memorandum
Iran's Foreign Ministry accused Washington of repeatedly breaching the signed memorandum of understanding between the two nations. The ministry cautioned that Tehran would take 'any action it deems necessary' to safeguard its national security and interests. The significant escalation threatens a fragile ceasefire and ongoing efforts to end the conflict in West Asia.
