Us and Iran exchange fresh attacks as tensions escalate over Strait of Hormuz
The United States and Iran exchanged fresh military attacks overnight, further escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at reaching a lasting settlement.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it completed a new wave of strikes late Wednesday, targeting Iranian command centers, air defense systems, missile and drone capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities. According to CENTCOM, precision munitions struck multiple locations, including Bandar Abbas, while earlier operations targeted coastal defense and cruise missile sites on Greater Tunb Island. The US said the strikes were intended to reduce Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran said it responded by launching attack drones against the US Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan as part of the ninth phase of Operation Saeqeh. Tehran said the strike targeted communications systems, a fixed radar installation and fuel depots in retaliation for recent US attacks, including a strike on military facilities in southeastern Iran.
Air defenses activated across Tehran
Air defense systems were activated across eastern and western Tehran early Thursday after explosions were reported near Parchin and Pakdasht. Iranian authorities confirmed the activation of air defenses and said there were no casualties in the affected areas. Officials in Semnan province also reported airstrikes near the local airport, while stating that no residential areas had been hit.
Iran keeps Strait of Hormuz closed
Iran said the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until the United States accepts Tehran's conditions, including an end to hostilities, compliance with a previously announced framework agreement and recognition of Iranian rules governing the strategic waterway.
Separately, CENTCOM said US forces disabled the Curacao-flagged oil tanker *M/T Belma* after it allegedly attempted to breach the US naval blockade and sail toward Iran's Kharg Island. The military said the vessel was rendered inoperable after a US aircraft fired Hellfire missiles into its smokestack.
US approves arms sales to Gulf allies
In a separate development, the US State Department approved a potential $1.96 billion arms package for Saudi Arabia, including Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS-II) guidance sections and related equipment. Washington also cleared a possible $484 million sustainment package for Kuwait's C-17 transport aircraft fleet.
Source:AA
