US strikes Iranian missile sites near Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions

Washington: The United States military has carried out airstrikes targeting Iranian missile installations near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, significantly escalating tensions in the region.

According to the United States Central Command, the strikes were conducted a few hours after strong remarks by US President Donald Trump, who asserted that Washington could gain full control over the Strait of Hormuz in a short period. The operation reportedly targeted missile bases located along Iran’s coastline.

In an official statement, the US military confirmed the use of powerful “bunker buster” bombs weighing approximately 5,000 pounds (2,268 kg) to destroy fortified missile positions. These installations were believed to house anti-ship cruise missiles capable of threatening international maritime traffic passing through the narrow but crucial waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important النفط transit routes, with a significant portion of global oil supply passing through it. Any disruption in the region has immediate repercussions on global energy markets. Recent developments suggest that Iran had tightened its control over the strait, leading to concerns over the safety of commercial shipping and oil transportation.

The escalating conflict has already begun to impact international fuel supply chains, with several countries facing challenges in securing energy shipments. Analysts warn that continued military action in the region could lead to a sharp increase in global oil prices and further destabilise already volatile markets.

While the US maintains that the strikes were necessary to neutralise imminent threats to maritime security, there has been no immediate detailed response from Iran regarding the latest attack.

The situation remains tense, with the international community closely monitoring further developments in the Gulf region.