US Launches More Strikes on Iran as Hormuz Conflict Intensifies

Washington DC/Tehran: The United States launched multiple waves of airstrikes on Iran early Monday in response to Tehran's attack on a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz that left the vessel ablaze and one crew member missing, further escalating tensions in the Gulf.

The US military's Central Command (CENTCOM) said it targeted Iranian air defence systems, radar sites, missile and drone infrastructure, and small boats. It added that fighter jets, warships, aerial drones and naval drones were used together for the first time in the operation.

"The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor for global trade. Iran does not control it," CENTCOM said, adding that US forces remain prepared to ensure freedom of navigation despite what it described as Iran's continued aggression.

Iranian state media confirmed explosions at multiple locations across the country and reported that at least one person was killed in the strikes.

Iran retaliated by launching attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan and Oman. Missile alert sirens sounded in Bahrain, which hosts the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, though there were no immediate reports of damage.

The Strait of Hormuz remains the central point of contention between Washington and Tehran. Iran insists it controls the strategic waterway and has declared it closed, while the US maintains that it remains open to international shipping.

The latest fighting comes midway through a 60-day interim agreement intended to pave the way for a permanent end to the conflict. Instead, repeated attacks around the strait have raised fears that the war could fully resume.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that "a return to full-scale hostilities would have catastrophic consequences."

US President Donald Trump said the US had struck Iran heavily, while Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf defended Tehran's actions, saying Iran would not accept "one-sided deals."

Despite the renewed violence, mediators including Pakistan, Qatar and Egypt continue diplomatic efforts to prevent a wider regional war.