The United States has expanded its airstrike campaign against Iran, hitting bridges, energy sites, and collapsing a tower at the key Chabahar port. The actions are part of President Donald Trump's strategy to pressure Tehran to ease its control over the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping lane.
Iran responded with new missile attacks on U.S.-allied nations, including Qatar, a key mediator. It also damaged a vital power and water desalination plant in Kuwait. The interim ceasefire has collapsed, with days of back-and-forth attacks now occurring.
Iranian officials report U.S. strikes have killed at least 38 people and wounded over 400. The strikes on bridges in Hormozgan province appear aimed at cutting off Iran's main port, Bandar Abbas, from routes to the capital, Tehran.
For the first time, Iran acknowledged attacks on power infrastructure in its southern provinces. The U.S. military's Central Command confirmed hitting dozens of targets in its latest round of strikes.
The conflict began on February 28th when the U.S. and Israel launched the war, prompting Iran to effectively close the strait. This move sent oil prices soaring and gave Tehran significant leverage. Maritime data shows cargo shipments through the strait have already dropped by almost a quarter.
President Trump stated in a primetime address that the war is "going well." However, the regional instability continues to grow, with Iranian missiles also targeting Bahrain and Kuwait, and a tanker reporting minor damage while transiting the strait.