The US has carried out a fresh round of airstrikes on Iran, targeting more than 80 locations in response to Iran’s latest attacks on commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes targeted Iranian air defence systems, command and control centres, coastal radar sites, anti-ship missile systems, and more than 60 Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fast boats in and around the Strait of Hormuz.
The US said the operation was aimed at weakening Iran’s ability to attack international shipping. It also accused Tehran of targeting commercial vessels carrying civilian crews.
Iran confirmed that the strikes had taken place but did not report any casualties or damage. Iranian state media said explosions were heard in Bandar Abbas, Qeshm and Sirik.
Iran’s central military command warned that it would respond decisively to what it called an act of aggression and terrorism. It also said Iran would not allow any interference in the affairs of the Strait of Hormuz or permit others to control it.
Meanwhile, the United States has revoked a licence that had allowed Iran to sell oil under the interim agreement. The licence had enabled Iran to openly export oil on the international market and receive payments in US dollars for the first time in years.
Iran has long been suspected of selling sanctioned crude oil to China at below-market prices. Iran strongly condemned the latest US military action and the decision to cancel sanctions waivers on its oil exports. In a social media post, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the US actions, including the latest strikes, were a serious violation of bilateral understandings.
Meanwhile, Kuwait has said that its air defence systems are activated today to intercept incoming missiles after the United States carried out airstrikes on Iran. Earlier, Bahrain also reported incoming missiles. There are no immediate reports of any damage or casualties. Both Bahrain and Kuwait have previously been targeted by Iranian attacks.