US launches new wave of strikes against Iran; risks 'full-scale' retaliatory attacks

The United States has initiated a new series of military strikes against Iran, marking the sixth consecutive night of such actions, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). These strikes, which began on Wednesday, July 15, targeted Iranian military capabilities including coastal defense systems, cruise missile sites, air defenses, and maritime assets, with some reports indicating an expansion to include infrastructure like bridges and an airport. The U.S. states these operations are intended to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the vital Strait of Hormuz, following alleged Iranian attacks on vessels and a renewed naval blockade of Iranian ports.

In response, Iranian officials, particularly from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), have issued warnings of "full-scale offensive operations" or "stronger retaliatory measures" should the U.S. continue its military actions. Iran has already claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes targeting U.S. military installations and allied facilities in the region, including in Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Qatar. Iranian media has also reported civilian casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure within Iran from the U.S. strikes.

This latest escalation follows the breakdown of an interim agreement or ceasefire earlier in July, which aimed to de-escalate tensions and facilitate negotiations between the two nations. The ongoing conflict is heavily centered around control and navigation of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global energy shipments.