The United States has launched fresh strikes against multiple targets in Iran, while Iranian media reported explosions near the Strait of Hormuz and military authorities announced the closure of the strategic waterway.
The US military said the attacks were part of what it described as additional "self-defence strikes" ordered by President Donald Trump in response to Iran's continued aggression.
In a statement, US Central Command (CENTCOM) said American forces had struck multiple targets inside Iran, without immediately providing details on the locations targeted or the extent of the damage. The military said the operation was conducted at Trump's direction and was intended as a response to what it called Iran's "unwarranted and continued aggression".
The latest strikes came a day after Trump warned that military action against Iran could intensify if efforts to reach an agreement failed.
According to US media reports, Trump said the current round of bombing would end shortly and claimed senior Iranian officials had contacted him seeking a halt to the attacks. However, he warned that further strikes could follow if no deal was reached.
Shortly after the US announcement, Iranian media outlets reported explosions in several locations in the country's south.
Iran's semi-official Fars News Agency said blasts were heard in the port city of Bandar Abbas as well as in Kargan and Minab. The agency said the precise locations of the explosions had not yet been identified.
Other reports said explosions were also heard on Qeshm Island and in the southern city of Sirik, both located near the Strait of Hormuz.
Separately, Iran's top joint military command announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important shipping routes. According to the reported statement, oil tankers and commercial vessels would no longer be permitted to transit the waterway, and any ship attempting to pass through could face military action. The reported closure, if enforced, would mark a significant escalation in the confrontation between Washington and Tehran.
The developments underscore the rapidly worsening tensions between the United States and Iran as military exchanges continue despite diplomatic efforts aimed at preventing a wider regional conflict.
.gif)
.jpg)
