In brief
President Trump announced that the United States had struck Iranian targets in a renewed campaign following the exchange of attacks along the Strait of Hormuz. The strikes, targeting southern cities including Sirik and Bandar Abbas, came after Iranian forces allegedly attacked shipping lanes, provoking an aggressive counter-response. Although Iran has yet to formally comment, officials warned of immediate retaliation. The new attacks threaten to void the partial ceasefire agreement struck last month, jeopardizing the 60‑day dialogue window and the lifting of sanctions. Analysts warn that further escalation could disrupt navigation through the vital waterway.
US launches new airstrikes on Iran and vows harder hits amid soaring tensions
The United States has launched a fresh series of strikes on Iranian targets after President Donald Trump signaled he would “hit them hard again tonight” following an overnight exchange of attacks.
Cannon blasts were reported in Iranian towns along the strategic Strait of Hormuz, including Sirik and the port city of Bandar Abbas. CENTCOM said the strikes were designed to degrade Tehran’s ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the waterway.
Iran has yet to issue an official statement, but senior officials warned any US attack would be met with an immediate response. CENTCOM added that the United States is holding Iran accountable for “unjustified aggression against commercial shipping and civilian crews.”
The exchange—because it was the fiercest between the two sides since the 17 June memorandum of understanding (MoU)—was triggered by attacks on three tankers in the strait. Trump claimed the ceasefire signed last month is over and added that the US “hit them very hard last night” and would probably “hit them hard again tonight.”
In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X: “We do not answer vulgarity with vulgarity, but with action: fearlessly and with great valour.”
The ceasefire agreement covered 14 points, including a 60‑day pause during which negotiations should continue, safe passage for vessels, and the U.S. lifting sanctions on Iran. The 60‑day window has not yet expired, yet Trump has dismissed further talks as a “waste of time.”
