U.S. strikes over 5,000 targets as Israel neutralizes Hezbollah financial hubs in Beirut
President Donald Trump has asserted that the conflict with Iran is nearing a decisive conclusion, citing the near-total depletion of the Iranian navy and munitions. The statements triggered an immediate decline in global oil prices.
Tehran has dismissed these claims as "absurd lies," with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vowing an escalation toward total war. Despite the rhetoric, U.S. officials report that Iran's missile launch capacity has been reduced to less than 10%.
Strategic strikes and maritime tension
U.S. forces recently engaged three Iranian vessels in the Persian Gulf. Concurrently, strike groups from the USS Gerald R. Ford intensified bombardments across Iran, targeting ballistic missile sites and air defense systems.
The U.S. military confirmed hitting over 5,000 strategic targets since the onset of hostilities. President Trump noted that while the Strait of Hormuz remains open, the U.S. is evaluating a potential takeover of the corridor, which handles 20% of global oil exports.
Regional spillover and financial disruption
In Lebanon, Israeli forces targeted the Al-Qard al-Hassan Foundation in Beirut. Although officially a charity, the U.S. and Israel identify it as a primary financial engine for Hezbollah’s operations.
The IDF also conducted strikes against six Iranian military airbases in Tehran and Isfahan. Brigadier General Effie Defrin reported that 1,900 Iranian personnel have been eliminated since the operation’s start, significantly undermining the regime's resistance.
Internal Iranian transition
Amid the kinetic conflict, Iranian political and military leaders have reportedly pledged allegiance to Mojtaba Khamenei, the country's new Supreme Leader. This leadership shift occurs as Israel encourages the Iranian populace to "free themselves" from the current administration.
In response to the offensive, Iran has launched retaliatory strikes against U.S. diplomatic missions and energy infrastructure across the Gulf. Meanwhile, the U.S. has urged its citizens to evacuate southeastern Turkey following recent missile interceptions in the region.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
