The U.S. military has launched major retaliatory strikes on Iran. Central Command (CENTCOM) says it hit more than 80 Iranian targets late Tuesday. The strikes came after Iran targeted three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
What Was Hit
CENTCOM listed the targets in a post on X. The list included air defenses, radar sites, and anti-ship missile sites. The post also included a video of the strikes.
Iranian state media reported explosions on Qeshm island. Explosions were also heard in the port city of Sirik.
CENTCOM said it also struck more than 60 small boats. These boats belonged to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards. The goal was to weaken Iran’s ability to keep attacking ships. These ships pass through a key international trade corridor.
Trump’s Claims vs. Expert Warnings
President Trump has often claimed the U.S. campaign destroyed much of Iran’s conventional navy. However, experts see things differently. They warn that the Revolutionary Guards’ smaller fast-attack boats still pose a real risk. These boats can still threaten commercial shipping in the region.
CENTCOM issued a warning after the strikes. The military said its forces remain ready to act. It added that Iran will be held accountable if the ceasefire agreement is broken.
Bahrain and Kuwait Under Fire
The conflict has now spread further. Bahrain and Kuwait say they are facing incoming fire. Bahrain sounded its missile alert sirens for the third time on Wednesday morning. This came after Iran launched retaliatory attacks following the U.S. airstrikes.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard confirmed the escalation. It issued a statement admitting it targeted U.S. military sites. These sites are located in both Bahrain and Kuwait.
Iran’s Strong Reaction
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard accused the U.S. of breaking the ceasefire. It claimed the U.S. army struck coastal bases and civilian stations. These strikes reportedly hit Hormozgan and Mahshahr provinces. The statement did not mention Iran’s own attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf also spoke out. He posted a defiant message on social media. He said the “era of bullying and extortion is over.” He added that Iran “won’t fold.”
Kuwait Pushes Back
Kuwait strongly criticized Iran’s attacks on its territory. It said the strikes damaged ongoing efforts to reduce tensions in the region. This reaction was reported by the French news agency AFP.
Curated news reports, in-depth analysis, and special features by India’s Opinion editorial team.
