U.S. and Iranian forces have intensified reciprocal strikes, targeting military and civilian infrastructure as conflict over the Strait of Hormuz continues.

The United States and Iran have engaged in a series of escalating military strikes across West Asia, marking seven consecutive nights of U.S. operations. The U.S. Central Command reported targeting Iranian surveillance sites, logistics infrastructure, and weapons storage. In response, Iranian forces stated they attacked U.S. military assets in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain, while accusing the U.S. of damaging civilian infrastructure within Iran.

Military Strikes and Regional Impact

U.S. strikes have hit various locations in Iran, including bridges in the southern Hormozgan province and infrastructure in the city of Bandar Khamir. Iranian state media reported that these attacks killed three people and wounded eight in Hormozgan, while also noting explosions in the city of Yazd. Conversely, Iranian forces claimed to have targeted the Al-Adiri camp and Ali Al-Salem base in Kuwait, as well as the Sheikh Isa Air Base and a data center in Bahrain. Kuwait reported intercepting Iranian missiles and drones, and air sirens were reported in Bahrain. The Revolutionary Guards also claimed to have stopped four ships in the Strait of Hormuz and alleged that two oil tankers were struck by mines, a claim the U.S. military denied.

Economic and Political Context

The conflict has significantly impacted the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed to shipping traffic since the war began on February 28. Oil prices rose above $86 a barrel on July 17, reaching a one-month high as transit through the strait dropped to a three-week low. Major General Mohsen Rezaei stated that Iran may resume full-scale offensive operations if U.S. strikes persist.