The United States has completed a new wave of strikes against Iranian military targets, including facilities belonging to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces carried out the strikes on September 1, targeting IRGC air-defense sites, radar systems, maritime assets and facilities, mine-laying capabilities and communications sites.
CENTCOM said the operation followed recent attempted attacks by the IRGC against commercial shipping in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and against U.S. service members in the region. More than 50,000 American troops are currently operating across the Middle East, according to the command.
The latest strikes mark another major escalation after a period of reduced hostilities. Iranian media reported explosions in several locations, including Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island, Sirik, Chabahar and Konarak. Iranian state television also reported that Jiroft Airport in Kerman Province had been targeted.
Iran subsequently launched retaliatory attacks against U.S. interests in parts of the Middle East, further increasing concerns that the conflict could spread across the region. Reuters reported that the latest exchange represents one of the most serious escalations in weeks.
The renewed fighting has also raised fresh concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy corridor. Disruptions in the waterway could affect oil supplies, shipping costs and international markets.
Washington says its operations are aimed at reducing threats posed by Iranian military capabilities, while Tehran has vowed to respond to cotinued American attacks.
With both sides maintaining a confrontational stance, international concerns are growing that further military action could undermine diplomatic efforts and trigger a broader regional crisis.