US expands airstrikes on Iran, hits bridges and ports, then pauses over ammo shortage

The United States has intensified its aerial campaign against Iran, striking bridges, tunnels, rail lines, desalination plants, ports and islands in the Hormuz Strait region. Attacks have damaged the port of Bandar Abbas, the island of Hormuz and infrastructure in the provinces of Hormozgan, Huzestan, Sistan‑Baluchestan and others, causing transport and water‑supply disruptions. Iranian officials say more than 3,400 people have been killed since the conflict resumed, with at least several dozen injured in the latest round of strikes. U.S. forces have also suffered casualties, including two soldiers killed by Iranian rockets and drone attacks.

After nearly two weeks of nightly bombings, the U.S. halted the raids, citing a shortage of ammunition for Patriot and other air‑defence systems that protect Gulf allies. The pause coincides with renewed diplomatic talks aimed at reopening the Hormuz Strait and a temporary cease‑fire agreement. The war has driven Brent crude above $100 a barrel and prompted criticism of Pentagon budgeting and casualty reporting. President Donald Trump has warned of a larger war if U.S. demands are not met, while analysts argue the strategy of repeatedly targeting Iranian infrastructure is unlikely to achieve a decisive outcome.