Washington: Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated again. The US launched new airstrikes on several areas in Iran. This was followed by reports of explosions in Sirik, Minab, Bandar Abbas, Qeshm Island, and Gorgan in southern Iran. Following the US attack, Iran has once again blocked one of the world’s most important waterways, Strait of Hormuz. This could raise fears of another oil crisis in India.
What did Donald Trump say?
Hours before these attacks, US President Donald Trump stated that the US was prepared to launch more severe attacks on Iran. He said, “We attacked yesterday and we will attack today. If Iran does not change the situation, the action will continue.” Trump also appealed to Iran to reach a compromise.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also stated that the US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) would be engaged in a major operation that night. CENTCOM later confirmed that additional strikes were carried out on several Iranian targets on the president’s orders. The US stated that this action was in response to Iran’s continued aggressive activities. Following this, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards also attacked two ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The IRGC claimed to have struck 18 key targets in retaliatory strikes, including an airbase in Bahrain and two in Kuwait.
Did Iran close Strait of Hormuz?
Following the US attacks, Iran took a major step and announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s Joint Military Command stated that no oil tankers, cargo ships, or other vessels would be allowed to pass through this route. Iran warned that any vessel attempting to pass through would be targeted. Iran also refuted the US claim that safe navigation is taking place through this sea route. Iran maintains that the situation in the area is unsafe. However, the US Central Command states that some commercial vessels are still transiting through this route.
Did Iran call Trump’s claim false?
Meanwhile, Trump told media that Iranian officials had contacted him and asked for a halt to the bombing. Trump claimed that the attacks could end soon, but that the US would take action again if necessary. He also stated that Israel was not involved in the attack. However, Iran completely rejected Trump’s claim. Iranian state media stated that no Iranian official had contacted Trump and that the claim was false.
