US Launches Fresh Attacks on Iran, Imposes Naval Blockade on Ports

The United States military has launched a new round of airstrikes against Iran and reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports, effective 22:00 local time (16:00 EST). The strikes, carried out by CENTCOM, targeted missile and drone sites, naval capabilities, and coastal defense systems near the Strait of Hormuz, with the stated goal of 'degrading Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping.' Source: ABC

The attacks

CENTCOM reported that over a seven-hour period, 'decenas de objetivos militares' were struck using precision munitions from fighter jets, drones, and warships. More than 20 US warships and hundreds of aircraft are deployed in the region. Source: Infobae Iranian officials confirmed impacts in several locations, including Ahvaz, Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and the islands of Qeshm and Hengam. However, Hormozgan governorate stated there were no casualties or damage to residential or commercial infrastructure. Source: ABC

Iran's response

In retaliation, Iran launched drone strikes against US military bases in Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have destroyed a hangar containing F-15, F-16, and F-35 fighter jets and multiple MQ-9 drones at a Jordanian base. Source: ABC The IRGC declared that 'the era of slaps in the face is over,' warning that any attack on Iranian territory would not go unanswered. Source: ABC

The blockade

The naval blockade prohibits vessels from entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal areas. CENTCOM commander Admiral Brad Cooper accused Iran of deliberately attacking seven merchant vessels over the past week, resulting in nearly a dozen civilian crew members killed, missing, or injured. The blockade aims to prevent further Iranian maritime aggression.