US Launches Fresh Strikes, Iran Threatens to Close More Trade Routes
The United States carried out a new wave of strikes on military targets in Iran on Wednesday, according to the US military's Central Command (Centcom). The strikes included drone, air, and navy operations, following a seven-hour operation overnight.
In response, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that the Strait of Hormuz would remain shut until the US ends what it called 'acts of aggression.' The IRGC also said other regional oil and gas export routes could be blocked, though it did not specify which ones.
US President Donald Trump said in an interview on Tuesday night that he would strike Iran's bridges and power plants next week if the country does not return to negotiations. 'I'll save the energy targets for last, but ultimately we'll hit energy targets,' Trump said.
The escalation follows Trump's earlier statement that a 20% toll he had threatened to impose in the Strait of Hormuz would be replaced by 'massive' trade and investment deals with Gulf states. On Tuesday evening, the US renewed a blockade on Iranian ports, stopping vessels from transiting to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas.
Iran's state-run broadcaster reported that the country's army had carried out separate attacks on US targets in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain. US allies in the region said they intercepted drones and missiles launched from Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway through which about 20% of the world's oil passes. Any disruption to shipping there could have significant global economic consequences.
