US forces launched strikes on Iran for a third consecutive night, hitting military targets across the country including Bushehr and Bandar Abbas. President Donald Trump called the operation "another major attack," stating the US is "knocking out all of their offensive capability" and reimposing a blockade.
Iran responded with strikes on Bahrain and two UAE-linked tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE Defence Ministry reported one mariner killed and eight wounded. Iran's Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility, saying the vessels had ignored warnings.
The escalating conflict centers on control of the critical Strait of Hormuz. President Trump proposed a 20% toll on all shipping through the strait, dubbing the US the "Guardian of the Hormuz Strait." He stated the US would be reimbursed for providing protection.
Despite the military actions, President Trump told reporters a deal is "still possible," referencing a previous agreement he said Iran failed to honor. Iran's Foreign Ministry stated a June memorandum of understanding that had lifted the US blockade was "in crisis."
The White House confirmed Trump notified Congress last week of resumed military conflict, granting the Pentagon 60 additional days of operational authority in the region.