U.S. conducts second wave of strikes on Iran targeting Strait of Hormuz capabilities
The United States said its latest air attacks aimed to reduce Iran's ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, while Tehran denied any plans for negotiations.
The U.S. military announced Wednesday that it had completed a second wave of strikes on Iran intended to degrade the Iranian forces’ capacity to target vessels in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The operation follows three consecutive nights of air attacks on Iranian military sites near the strait and along the coast.
U.S. Central Command said the latest strikes disabled an empty oil tanker en route to Iran’s Kharg Island, marking the first vessel interdicted since the naval blockade was reinstated. The blockade, which has already forced the diversion of two commercial ships, has reduced traffic through the waterway to a minimal level.
Iran’s foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei told state media that Tehran has no intention to negotiate with the United States. In contrast, Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the country remains open to diplomatic talks while insisting on defending its national security interests.
President Donald Trump posted on his social-media platform that an American woman detained in Iran since December 2024 had been released and expressed appreciation for what he described as a “gesture of goodwill.” The woman, identified by her attorney as Dena Karari, was reportedly released on bail with an exit ban that was later lifted.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance, speaking on a podcast, emphasized the need for diplomacy to resolve the tension in the strait, arguing that military action alone cannot secure lasting stability.
Iran’s health ministry reported more than 260 injuries, including women and children, and over 30 civilian deaths resulting from recent U.S. strikes, though independent verification was not available. Iranian officials also said at least seven Iranian military personnel were killed in the overnight attacks.
The renewed hostilities have pressured global oil markets, with U.S. gasoline prices rising modestly. Analysts note that strategic crude reserves previously used to cushion price shocks have been largely drawn down, and China may increase crude purchases as it seeks to replenish its own inventories.