US launches new strikes on Iran after attempted mining of Strait of Hormuz

The United States military said it had conducted a series of airstrikes on Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) facilities after the group attempted to mine the Strait of Hormuz and launched missiles at U.S. personnel. The attacks, described by President Donald Trump as "large and powerful," targeted air-defence sites, radar installations, maritime assets and communications infrastructure, according to Central Command.

Iran’s IRGC spokesperson warned that Washington would "regret" the strikes and cited a hit on Jiroft airport in southeastern Iran. The Iranian state media also reported that two oil tankers caught fire after striking mines in the strait, though the claims have not been independently verified.

The escalation prompted alerts in Bahrain and Kuwait, with both countries reporting drone interceptions. Jordan said it intercepted ten of thirteen ballistic missiles launched from Iran, and Saudi Arabia’s national shipping line reported two crew deaths in a separate incident.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced plans for additional sanctions on Iran, including measures against banks and aircraft-leasing firms, as part of a broader effort to pressure the regime.

The latest round of fighting comes six months into the Iran-U.S. conflict, which has disrupted commercial shipping through the strategically vital waterway and raised concerns about the sustainability of U.S. military operations in the region.