Tehran [Iran], July 16 – The military confrontation between the US and Iran entered a new phase on Thursday as US forces launched another wave of airstrikes on Iranian military targets prompting renewed retaliatory attacks by Tehran against US linked assets in the Gulf.
President Donald Trump warned Iran to “behave” following the latest strikes as Washington intensified its military campaign against Iranian positions.
According to Iranian media explosions were reported in Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas and Chabahar while the latest attacks also reached areas surrounding Tehran. Iran’s Semnan province home to ballistic missile production facilities and parts of the country’s space programme was also reportedly targeted.
The US military said it had begun another round of operations against Iran. Earlier it said it disabled an oil tanker heading toward an Iranian port through the Strait of Hormuz using a Hellfire missile after the vessel allegedly ignored repeated warnings.
Iran’s Health Ministry said the latest attacks killed more than 35 people and injured over 300 others.
Iran responded by targeting U.S. military assets in Kuwait, Jordan and Bahrain. Kuwaiti authorities said they intercepted four cruise missiles and 21 drones launched from Iran by Thursday morning. Air raid sirens sounded across parts of Kuwait and Bahrain as regional tensions escalated.
The conflict has also disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, sending global energy prices sharply higher. Brent crude rose above $85 per barrel amid concerns over oil supply.
Trump said Iran was prepared to pursue a peace agreement but did not provide further details while US efforts to restore maritime access and sustain diplomatic channels remain ongoing amid intensifying hostilities.
