The US military launched new strikes against Iran, escalating the standoff over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran stated the strikes rendered diplomatic efforts futile, while the US aims to degrade Iran's ability to attack ships. Oil prices surged following the renewed violence.
The US and Iran are engaged in a battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz, with both sides exchanging strikes. Iran claims to have closed the strait, but the US insists it remains open. A recent ceasefire agreement appears to be on the verge of collapse.
US forces intercepted and downed several Iranian drones over the Strait of Hormuz in recent hours, according to CENTCOM. The strait remains open for transit despite an Iranian-enforced blockade, with ongoing talks between Tehran and Washington mediated by Pakistan marked by exchanges of fire.
The US conducted defensive strikes on Iranian missile sites and boats, despite an ongoing seven-week ceasefire, as negotiations for a peace deal resumed in Qatar, with Iran seeking frozen asset release and the US pushing for nuclear concessions.
US Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper declined to take responsibility for an attack on a school in Minab, Iran, that killed 155 people, citing an ongoing "complex" investigation. The school was reportedly located on an IRGC missile base. US officials have previously avoided admitting fault for the incident.
The US military said it carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran on Thursday, targeting sites it said were responsible for attacking US forces in what it called unprovoked hostilities by Tehran. Earlier, Iran’s top joint military command said the US had violated a ceasefire by targeting an Iranian oil tanker and another ship entering the Strait of Hormuz, and by striking civilian areas. “US Central Command (CENTCOM) eliminated inbound threats and targeted Iranian military facilities...
