Gulf on edge: US expands strikes as Iran hits regional targets
US forces struck Iranian military targets for a seventh consecutive night. The combined assault utilized fighter jets, drones, and warships to destroy underground weapon depots and maritime infrastructure.
In response, Iran launched retaliatory strikes across Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain, and Iraq. Tehran also claimed two oil tankers exploded after striking mines in the Strait of Hormuz.
Regional defenses activated
Regional defense systems remain on high alert. Kuwaiti air defenses intercepted hostile drones, while Bahrain activated warning sirens and urged residents to seek immediate shelter.
Saudi Arabia issued brief alerts in the Yanbu and Al-Kharj provinces before declaring the danger had passed. In Jordan, military forces intercepted ten Iranian missiles early Saturday, according to state media.
The conflict shows signs of further escalation. Axios reports that the US plans to deploy a fleet of refueling aircraft to expand operations against Iranian targets.
Maritime clashes and retaliation
Tehran’s state television reported the destruction of two bridges near the Strait of Hormuz. An airport in eastern Iran was also reportedly struck during the nighttime raids.
"We have major gains in Iran, and you will soon see the fruits of the labor put in there," Donald Trump stated regarding the ongoing operations.
US forces reported destroying an Iranian port surveillance tower, degrading Tehran's ability to coordinate attacks on civilian vessels. Meanwhile, US Marines inspected a tanker in the Gulf of Oman suspected of belonging to Iran's "ghost fleet."
Tehran vows further response
Iranian officials claimed their forces launched missiles and drones at US military bases in the region. They also reported striking a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz for ignoring navigational warnings.
Tehran leaders have vowed continuous retaliation. "Removing American military bases from the region—that is what we mean by revenge," officials stated, adding that serious blows have already been dealt.
Propaganda efforts within Iran have also intensified. New billboards in Tehran depict the US president drowning alongside the Israeli prime minister and the Pentagon chief.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
