US launches new strikes on Iran as Strait of Hormuz standoff intensifies

The US military launched a new wave of strikes across Iran overnight on Monday, escalating a conflict that threatens an interim agreement between Washington and Tehran. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the strikes began at 2100 GMT on Sunday, following approximately 140 strikes the previous night. The latest attacks hit "dozens of targets" including Iranian air-defense systems, coastal radar sites, missile and drone capabilities, and small boats. CENTCOM stated the goal was to "degrade Iran’s ability to continue attacking international shipping flowing through the Strait of Hormuz."

Iranian state media reported strikes across large areas in southern and western Iran, including Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas near the strait, as well as Khuzestan province bordering Iraq. Strikes also hit Farur Island, east of Qeshm, killing a telecommunications worker and wounding two others, according to IRNA, which later reported one martyr and four injured. Iran's Revolutionary Guards responded by striking Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Kuwait reported damage to three border posts and a drone attack on an offshore drilling platform that injured one person. Bahrain sounded air raid sirens again on Monday, urging residents to take shelter.

The renewed fighting followed an Iranian attack on a commercial ship in the Strait of Hormuz early Sunday, forcing the crew to abandon the burning vessel. Iran's Revolutionary Guards declared the strait closed until further notice, saying it would remain so until US interventions end. CENTCOM countered that the strait is open and US forces are prepared to ensure freedom of navigation.