The United States has launched a sixth consecutive night of military strikes on Iran, intensifying the conflict as Tehran accused Washington of targeting civilian infrastructure and expanded its retaliatory actions across the Middle East.
US Central Command said American forces hit dozens of Iranian military installations, including coastal surveillance systems, air defence sites and maritime capabilities. It also confirmed boarding an oil tanker and redirecting commercial vessels as part of a maritime blockade.
Iranian state media alleged strikes damaged civilian facilities such as bridges, a railway station and an airport. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed retaliatory attacks on US targets in Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain and Syria.
The fighting has kept the Strait of Hormuz closed, raising fears over global oil supplies. Iranian authorities reported seven deaths in the latest strikes, with at least 38 killed overall since the escalation began.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump remains open to diplomacy while vowing a firm response to threats. “The president will hold them accountable… But he is always open to diplomacy at the very same time,” she stated.
