WASHINGTON (Kashmir English): The United States military has launched a new series of strikes against Iran, further escalating tensions in the region amid concerns over the security of international shipping routes.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces had carried out a “series of powerful strikes” against Iranian targets, claiming the action was intended to impose consequences for alleged attacks on commercial vessels in international waters.
According to CENTCOM, the operation was launched in response to what it described as Iranian attacks on three commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The US military alleged that the incidents constituted an unjustified and dangerous act and represented a violation of the existing ceasefire arrangements.
Reports from the region indicated that explosions were heard in several areas of southern Iran following the announcement.
Witnesses reported seeing flames and thick black smoke rising over Bandar Abbas, a strategically important port city located on the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian media also reported explosions in the coastal city of Sark as well as on Qeshm Island.
Iranian authorities have not yet officially confirmed the cause of the reported explosions, and there has been no immediate response from Tehran regarding the US allegations.
Moreover, According to Iranian media, explosions were heard in the southern coastal city of Sark.
Iranian media said that explosions were also heard in Iran’s Qeshm Island and Bandar Abbas. The causes are not yet known.
