US Airstrikes Damage Key Iran Port of Chabahar, Trade Route for Afghanistan Affected
Washington, July 17, 2026 – The United States conducted airstrikes on Friday that appeared to damage a tower at Iran's Chabahar port on the Gulf of Oman, according to officials and social media images. The port is a critical trade route for landlocked Afghanistan and has been a repeated target of American strikes in recent weeks.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth shared an image on social media showing a surveillance tower at the port collapsing. The image had previously circulated among activists before Mr. Hegseth posted it. No official confirmation of the tower's status was immediately available from Iranian authorities.
Iranian state media acknowledged a third round of strikes on the facility but did not confirm the tower's collapse. Iran has described the tower as overseeing commercial traffic into the port. However, Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard also operates at ports across the country, raising questions about the dual-use nature of the facility.
Chabahar port, located on Iran's southeastern coast, has been a focal point of tensions between the US and Iran. The port is strategically important for India's connectivity to Afghanistan and Central Asia, bypassing Pakistan. Previous US strikes had targeted infrastructure at the port, citing its use by Iranian military forces.
The latest airstrikes come amid heightened hostilities in the region. The US has cited Iran's support for militant groups and its nuclear programme as justifications for military action. Iran has condemned the strikes as violations of its sovereignty and international law.
International reactions have been mixed. Some countries have called for restraint, while others have expressed support for US actions. The United Nations has urged both sides to de-escalate and seek diplomatic solutions.
The damage to Chabahar port could disrupt trade flows to Afghanistan, which relies on the port for imports of food, fuel, and other essentials. Humanitarian organisations have warned of potential shortages if the port remains compromised.
As of now, no casualties have been reported from the airstrikes. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
