Washington: The conflict between the United States and Iran escalated sharply on Wednesday as US forces launched a fresh wave of airstrikes against Iranian military targets, reimposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports and President Donald Trump warned of attacks on Iran’s power plants and bridges unless Tehran returns to negotiations.
The latest developments have further weakened a fragile memorandum of understanding reached between the two countries in June, with both sides intensifying military operations across the Gulf region.
Trump issues fresh warning to Iran
Speaking during an interview with Fox News, President Trump said the United States would continue military operations and expand its list of targets if Iran refuses to negotiate.
He indicated that energy infrastructure, including power plants and bridges, could become future targets, while reiterating that Washington wants Tehran to return to the negotiating table.
Trump also confirmed that the United States had reinstated a naval blockade on Iranian ports and coastal areas after lifting restrictions under last month’s agreement. According to the administration, international commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will continue, but Iranian maritime traffic will face restrictions.
US launches new wave of strikes
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces had begun another round of airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure allegedly linked to attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to US officials, the latest operation is intended to further degrade Iran’s military capabilities, particularly assets used to threaten international maritime traffic.
The strikes follow earlier attacks on missile sites, drone facilities, coastal defence systems and maritime assets in southern Iran.
Iran retaliates with regional attacks
Iran responded by launching drone attacks targeting US military positions, including Jordan’s Azraq Air Base, while the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly carried out strikes on weapons storage facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait.
Iranian state media also reported fresh US strikes near Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Qeshm Island, areas located close to the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran would not negotiate under military pressure or economic sanctions, rejecting Washington’s demands for renewed talks.
Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of tensions
The Strait of Hormuz continues to be the focal point of the confrontation.
Before the conflict intensified earlier this year, nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supplies passed through the strategic waterway every day. The renewed blockade and military activity have heightened concerns over global energy supplies and shipping security.
US Central Command accused Iran of targeting commercial shipping, alleging that Iranian forces attacked several merchant vessels over the past week, resulting in civilian casualties.
Fresh sanctions target Iran’s shipping network
Alongside military action, the United States announced a new round of sanctions targeting a shipping network that Washington says helps Iran circumvent restrictions on oil exports.
The US Treasury Department sanctioned more than 200 individuals, companies and vessels allegedly linked to businessman Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, whom it described as a key figure in Iran’s oil export and shipping operations.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the sanctions are intended to disrupt the financial infrastructure supporting Iran’s oil trade and activities viewed by Washington as threatening international maritime security. The measures freeze US-based assets of those sanctioned and prohibit American entities from conducting business with them.
Regional uncertainty deepens
The renewed airstrikes, naval blockade and expanded sanctions have significantly reduced hopes of restoring the June understanding between Washington and Tehran.
With both countries continuing military operations and diplomatic efforts stalled, concerns are mounting over the stability of the Gulf region and the security of one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could have far-reaching implications for global oil markets, international trade and regional security.
