Image source, US Central Command
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Following US attacks, Iran has targeted American military bases located in Gulf countries.
The United States launched attacks on Iranian targets after President Donald Trump warned of “a strong strike” against Iran for delaying a peace agreement.
On the second day after the conflict began, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the completion of its ‘self-defense’ operations.
In response, Iran claimed to have targeted the locations used in the attacks against it by striking American military installations in Bahrain and Kuwait.
The attacks from both sides have escalated tensions in recent days, testing the fragile ceasefire agreement established in April.
Following recent US strikes, explosions were reported in southern Iranian cities near the Strait of Hormuz. On Tuesday, US forces attacked air defense systems, radar installations, and other military infrastructure in the area.
The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reported that ships in the Strait of Hormuz were also targeted.
Iranian state media claimed that the Strait of Hormuz is “completely closed to all types of vessels,” leading to an increase in attacks on shipping traffic, though CENTCOM stated that “commercial vessels continue to transit the Strait of Hormuz.”
Although Iranian media report that the Iranian Navy attacked two oil tankers in the Strait, these claims have not been independently confirmed.
Oil Prices Surge Again
Image source, Reuters
With major global oil shipping routes disrupted and reports of attacks on vessels, oil prices have increased once again. On Thursday morning in Asian trading, Brent crude crossed $95 per barrel, rising approximately two percent.
The US military launched its campaign after President Trump’s warning to Iran on Truth Social.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry accused the US of sending mixed messages that have undermined diplomatic efforts.
In response to Trump’s remarks, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated, “Iran remains steadfast in the face of any pressure or threats.”
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that key Iranian facilities were bombed. Both Trump and Hegseth said Iran was not interested in the agreement even when given the opportunity.
In April, both American and Iranian parties agreed on a two-week ceasefire. While both claim to have maintained it, minor skirmishes continue, though a full-scale war has not resumed.
Since then, talks between Washington and Tehran have stalled, and attacks have increased.
After the US blamed Iran for an attack on an American helicopter on Tuesday, the US responded with strikes on Iran, which was followed by Iranian forces attacking US bases in the Middle East.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the Middle East is becoming increasingly embroiled in crisis and has called for an immediate halt to the attacks.
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