The conflict between the USA and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz escalates further. The United Arab Emirates report Iranian attacks on oil tankers, resulting in one fatality.
The US military has conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets for the third consecutive night. According to Central Command (Centcom), these actions were initiated shortly before 11 PM German time, highlighted on the platform X.
Iran’s Response
Local Iranian media reported on explosions on the southern coast. The Fars News Agency and the government-aligned Press TV reported multiple detonations on Kish Island, with additional reports from Bushehr, Qeshm Island, and Bandar Abbas, indicating a significant military escalation.
Regional Tensions Rise
Bahrain has reported being attacked, possibly as retaliation from Iran, with rocket warning sirens sounding across the nation. The United Arab Emirates announced that Iran had attacked two of their oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in one fatality and several injuries.
Trump’s Plans for Military Action
President Donald Trump signaled that further military strikes against Iran are forthcoming, aiming to cripple Iran’s capability to threaten civilians and maritime shipping in the critical Strait of Hormuz. In a radio interview, Trump announced that the US military would “hit hard” tonight and tomorrow, implying that Iran would be unable to retaliate effectively.
Speculation on Future Targets
Trump also hinted at targeting facilities deep underground, known as “Pickaxe Mountain,” speculated to house a secret uranium enrichment plant potentially tied to nuclear weapons development. He suggested that this could be a target for an imminent, substantial attack.
Increasing Frequency of Attacks
Recent days have seen a resurgence of US military strikes against Iranian positions following a brief pause. The US justified its actions due to Iranian provocations against maritime commerce in the Strait. Iran’s subsequent retaliatory strikes have heightened hostilities.
Control Over the Strait of Hormuz
Trump further proclaimed that the US would “take control” of the Strait of Hormuz, proposing a 20% fee on transported goods to cover the costs of securing this critical passageway. In response, Iranian military command asserted that the US has no authority over the waterway’s future and insisted on safeguarding its sovereignty.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtchi stated on X that Tehran remains the guardian of the Strait and will uphold that status indefinitely. He quipped that the proposed 20% fee was excessive but promised fairness in their dealings.
