WASHINGTON — The United States military launched a fresh wave of precision airstrikes against Iranian positions on Wednesday morning, as Tehran threatened to freeze energy exports across the Middle East.
The 90-minute daytime operation targeted coastal defense networks and cruise missile launch pads on Greater Tunb Island. This strategic island sits near the entrance of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil.
According to US Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes successfully weakened Iran’s ability to attack commercial shipping vessels. The morning bombardment followed a massive seven-hour overnight air and sea assault.
In response to the attacks, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) warned that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until US operations cease. Iranian state media reported that Tehran launched retaliatory drone and missile strikes against US military bases in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain. Officials in Bahrain confirmed they intercepted several aerial attacks.
The IRGC also threatened to shut down other regional oil and gas pipelines. They warned the US and its allies to expect closures on multiple export channels. Commercial traffic through the strait has nearly stopped, causing global Brent crude prices to spike as tanker traffic stalls.
Trump Reinstates Blockade, Warns of Infrastructure Attacks
The military escalation intensified after President Donald Trump reimposed a strict naval blockade on Iranian ports Tuesday night. The blockade stops all ships from traveling to or from Iran’s coast. This order effectively canceled a ceasefire agreement signed by both nations just last month.
Trump issued a stark ultimatum during a television interview on Special Report with Bret Baier. He warned that the US will bomb Iranian bridges and power plants next week if Tehran refuses to negotiate. “I’ll save the energy targets for last, but ultimately we’ll hit energy targets,” Trump stated.
The threat to strike civilian utility networks mirrors a similar warning Trump made in April. At the time, UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk stated that intentionally targeting civilian infrastructure constitutes a war crime under international law.
Trump also reversed his controversial plan to force cargo ships to pay a 20% security toll to cross the strait. He announced the fee would be replaced by upcoming investment deals with Gulf nations, though no specific fiscal details were provided.
