The United States launched a ninth consecutive day of military strikes against Iran on Monday, further escalating tensions in the Middle East as concerns grow over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes. The latest developments came after Iranian authorities claimed that two oil tankers exploded and became immobilised while attempting to pass through the strategic waterway.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest wave of strikes is aimed at reducing Iran’s military capabilities and preventing further attacks on commercial vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz. The US military did not disclose specific targets but stated that the operation was focused on protecting international maritime traffic.
Iranian media reported that US missiles struck several cities, including Tabriz, Chabahar, Konarak, Bandar Mahshahr, and Bandar Imam Khomeini. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington would continue military operations as long as Iran threatened international shipping, while also reaffirming that the United States remained open to a diplomatic solution.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for attacks targeting what it described as enemy military positions in Syria and Jordan, while also reporting drone operations against US military facilities in Kuwait. Iran further alleged that two oil tankers were damaged while using a southern route through the Strait of Hormuz, blaming the United States for encouraging ships to travel through what it called an unsafe passage. However, these claims have not been independently verified.
The ongoing conflict has significantly affected global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, with maritime data indicating a decline in the number of vessels passing through the route compared to previous days. The disruption has increased concerns over global energy supplies and the possibility of rising oil prices.
The US military also confirmed the death of another American service member during operations in northern Iraq, bringing the total number of reported US military fatalities in the conflict to 17, with more than 420 personnel wounded since hostilities began.
