The United States conducted strikes on Iran for the 11th consecutive night late Tuesday, coinciding with threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to attack an underground nuclear site near Natanz.
U.S. Central Command (Centcom) stated the strikes were aimed at degrading Iran's capability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media reported the activation of air defenses in Tehran and explosions in multiple cities, including Tabriz, Chabahar, Konarak, and Bushehr, the latter being home to Iran's sole nuclear power plant.
Iran has warned of reprisals following President Trump's threat to target the nuclear facility. This escalation follows a ceasefire agreement in April, with hostilities resuming due to disputes over control of the Strait of Hormuz. Centcom reported that U.S. forces targeted Iranian military operations centers, maritime assets, aircraft hangars, drone storage, and logistics infrastructure, citing Iran's alleged attacks on over 30 commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz during the past three months. Centcom asserts these actions have endangered mariners and undermined freedom of navigation, while maintaining the waterway remains open for commercial transit.
Neighboring countries reported increased activity, with Kuwait's army stating its air defenses engaged drone attacks from Iran early Wednesday. Bahrain and Jordan also reported intercepting drone and missile strikes.
The escalating tensions have impacted global oil prices, which rose to $94 on Wednesday. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Washington remains open to diplomacy with Tehran, but expressed doubts about Iran's willingness to engage in serious talks.