Iran Claims Strikes on U.S. Bases Across Middle East
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claims to have launched a series of attacks on U.S. military sites in the Middle East, including bases in Syria, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and Jordan. No confirmation has been given by U.S. officials regarding these alleged impacts, and Iran is known to exaggerate such claims.
The IRGC reported destroying helicopters at a U.S. base in Syria and causing a fire at a base in Kuwait with surface-to-surface missiles. They also claim to have attacked radar facilities in Oman, logistics centers in Kuwait with drones, and an army base in Bahrain.
Further assertions include damage to U.S. aircraft in Jordan. However, no verification from U.S. sources has been provided yet. Additionally, Kuwait reported strikes hitting power and desalination stations, while Qatar indicated a child was injured from intercepted shrapnel.
Strait of Hormuz: Shipping Risks Surge
The Strait of Hormuz has become increasingly dangerous for ship crews since the breakdown of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire. Dimitris Maniatis, CEO of Marisks, a Greek maritime risk management company, stated that crews are unwilling to traverse the area due to elevated risks.
Maniatis emphasized a return to worst-case scenarios for shipping, with a notable decrease in vessel transits and heightened attacks on commercial ships. This situation has led to increased oil prices, with Brent crude trading at approximately $85 per barrel and U.S. benchmark crude approaching $80 per barrel.
U.S. Continues Strikes on Iranian Targets
The U.S. Central Command confirmed ongoing strikes against Iran, marking six consecutive nights of attacks following the breakdown of the ceasefire. The strikes are targeting military logistics, surveillance sites, and maritime capabilities. CENTCOM stated that around 50,000 U.S. personnel are deployed across the region.
Reported damages include attacks on airports, railway stations, and bridges in Iran, resulting in casualties as per Iranian state media reports.
U.S. Implements Naval Blockade and Vessel Compliance
U.S. Marines have enforced a naval blockade, boarding commercial vessels in the Gulf of Oman to ensure compliance. Since the blockade commenced, several vessels have been redirected or disabled, ensuring adherence to the imposed restrictions.
White House Maintains Dialogue Amid Conflict
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed that the U.S. continues to engage in peace talks with Iran despite ongoing hostilities. She attributed recent strikes to Iran’s breach of a memorandum of understanding that prohibited attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
Leavitt stated President Trump remains committed to holding Iran accountable for its actions, highlighting retaliatory measures in response to violations and emphasizing ongoing diplomatic efforts.