US Strikes Iran for Sixth Night; Blockade Tightens Amid Rising Tensions
The United States military carried out a sixth consecutive night of air strikes against Iran on Thursday, targeting military sites in southern Iran, including Bandar Abbas, Ahvaz, Qeshm Island, and Bushehr. Iranian state media reported explosions and casualties, while the US Navy intensified its blockade on Iranian ports in the Gulf of Oman.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the strikes, stating they were aimed at further degrading Iranian military capabilities. According to Iranian sources, a bridge near Bandar-e Khamir and approximately ten targets on Qeshm Island were hit. In Bandar Abbas, two people were killed and eight wounded after strikes struck a bridge and a residential area, forcing the evacuation of over 200 patients from a nearby cancer hospital.
The US naval blockade, part of efforts to restrict Iranian oil exports, has intensified. CENTCOM reported redirecting three commercial vessels, disabling one non-compliant ship, and boarding another in the Gulf of Oman. The blockade has significantly reduced maritime traffic in the region, impacting global oil markets. An empty oil tanker headed for Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil terminal, was struck as part of the operation.
Iran has warned that continued American pressure would lead to devastating retaliation. Iranian officials stated that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, would never return to normal under current conditions. The International Energy Agency (IEA) chief, Fatih Birol, expressed concern over energy security if the situation does not improve in the coming weeks.
In a separate development, Vice President JD Vance accused Israel of funding efforts to derail US-Iran talks. Former President Donald Trump claimed that Iran's Revolutionary Guard has lost up to 90% of its weapons capability, suggesting a wider military campaign is being considered. Meanwhile, Kuwait reported responding to Iranian missile and drone attacks, with loud sounds heard across the country due to interceptions.
The conflict shows no signs of de-escalation, with both sides continuing military operations and diplomatic channels appearing stalled. The global community is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the impact on oil supplies and regional stability.
