The United States military conducted new airstrikes against multiple targets in Iran overnight, as President Donald Trump threatened further attacks if a peace agreement is not secured. The strikes, announced by the US Central Command on Wednesday, targeted military surveillance capabilities, communication systems, and air defense sites across Iran. The operation began shortly after midnight in Tehran and lasted approximately four hours.
Escalating Exchange of Fire
The attacks represent the latest escalation in a series of retaliatory strikes between the two nations, threatening to reignite a full-scale war that was paused in early April with a fragile ceasefire. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps responded early Thursday by launching counter-attacks on 18 US military targets at airbases in Kuwait and Bahrain. Bahrain's interior ministry confirmed that sirens were sounded following the attacks.
Strait of Hormuz Tensions
Iran's top joint military command warned that it would fire on any vessel attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely closed for months. Iranian media reported that two ships were fired upon. However, US Central Command denied that the strait was closed, stating that commercial ships continued to transit despite Iran's threats. President Trump earlier claimed that vessels were crossing the strait without Iran's permission as part of a clandestine military mission.
Trump's Warning
In a conversation with Fox News reporter Trey Yingst, Trump stated that the strikes would stop shortly but that he would 'bomb the shit out of them' if Iran's leaders did not immediately sign an agreement with the US. Iranian news agencies reported explosions in several cities, including Sirik, Kargan, Bandar Abbas, Minab, Varamin, and Karaj.
US Defense Secretary's Statement
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth presented the strikes as an effort to force Iran into a deal to end the conflict. During a visit to Central Command in Florida, he told reporters that the strikes would 'advance our military interests and also enhance our diplomatic position.' He added, 'We will strike them hard tonight, and hopefully Iran makes a good decision. If we need to negotiate with bombs, we'll negotiate with bombs.'
Fragile Ceasefire Under Strain
The United States and Iran have traded fire several times since the tentative ceasefire took effect, even as negotiators have unsuccessfully sought an end to the war, which is now in its fourth month. Trump has repeatedly stated that a deal is close, though there has been no sign of a breakthrough, while also threatening to resume bombing. The ongoing conflict continues to destabilize the region, with both sides showing no sign of backing down.
