Washington: The US military announced it completed a two-hour operation targeting Iranian sites, responding to Iran's missile launches aimed at American forces in the Middle East. The strikes, which the US described as a "powerful response," targeted military command centers, drone and missile facilities, and coastal defense sites. The operation was a continuation of escalating tensions following Iran's confirmed firing on US bases in Jordan.
According to France24.com, the US military intercepted multiple ballistic missiles launched by Iran, which were described by Washington as "an attempted surprise attack." President Donald Trump promised a strong retaliation, emphasizing the US's commitment to hitting Iran "very hard." The US Central Command highlighted the operation on social media, detailing the comprehensive scope of the strikes and their objectives against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targets.
Further complicating the geopolitical landscape, Saudi Arabia and the US also conducted strikes on militant bases in Iraq, while Israel accused Iran-backed Hezbollah of violating a truce. The strikes in Iraq were part of a joint US-Saudi operation targeting logistics and weapon sites affiliated with Iran-aligned groups. The Hashed al-Shaabi alliance, an official security institution in Iraq, reported casualties and denounced the strikes as a "dangerous escalation."
In response to the escalating conflict, Iraq expressed its rejection of the US-Saudi strikes, emphasizing its stance against aggression and its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty. Despite the tensions, President Trump stated that the strikes were coordinated with the Iraqi government. The ongoing conflict has also seen Iran blockading the Strait of Hormuz, with the Revolutionary Guards asserting control over the critical waterway.
The US continues to pressure Iraq to disarm pro-Iran groups, seeking to initiate new negotiations and stabilize the region. The strategic significance of the Red Sea has increased as tensions affect traditional export routes, prompting countries like Saudi Arabia to explore alternatives. The situation remains fluid, with international stakeholders closely monitoring developments.