United States intensifies airstrikes on Iran as Strait of Hormuz blockade disrupts shipping
The United States launched a series of airstrikes targeting Iranian command centers, coastal‑defence systems, missile and drone sites, and coastal surveillance facilities. A second wave hit Greater Tunb Island and other locations in the Persian Gulf. U.S. forces also disabled an unladen Curacao‑flagged tanker, Belma, that ignored multiple warnings and attempted to approach Iran’s Kharg Island.
Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on U.S. bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan and other regional sites, and warned it would keep the Strait of Hormuz closed until the U.S. ends its “acts of aggression.” Iranian officials reported at least 35 deaths and more than 300 injuries from the U.S. strikes.
The blockade has sharply reduced traffic through the strait – nine vessels crossed on the first day after the re‑imposition, down from thirteen the day before – and pushed Brent crude above $85 a barrel. U.S. Vice‑President JD Vance defended continued diplomatic engagement, while President Donald Trump claimed Iran wants an agreement but warned it must “behave.” Iran’s leadership warned of a possible hybrid U.S. offensive and highlighted new pipeline projects that could bypass Hormuz in the longer term.