US Strikes Iran Around Strait of Hormuz, Escalating Regional Tensions
The US has launched new airstrikes against Iran around the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the region. The strikes targeted Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targets, following reports of attempted attacks by the IRGC on commercial shipping and American service members.
Oil prices surged after the announcement, with Brent crude futures jumping almost 2% more. Tehran remained defiant, warning that it would prevent oil exports from the Gulf despite US threats to impose new sanctions.
US President Donald Trump warned Iran that if they retaliated for the attack, 'they will be hit again at a much harder and higher level'. The Fars news agency cited an IRGC spokesperson as saying the US 'will regret its new attacks'.
The conflict between the US and Iran has been ongoing since February 28, with thousands killed in Iran and Lebanon. The latest exchange of fire brings concerns that the conflict will continue indefinitely.