The escalation of the conflict in the Persian Gulf is gaining momentum. On the night of July 8 to 9, the United States continued its military operation against Iran, launching a series of strikes on Iranian territory. This marks the second consecutive day that American forces have attacked targets within the Islamic Republic. Official confirmation came from the US Central Command (CENTCOM), which announced the commencement of additional attacks.
Targets and Causes of the New Wave of Strikes
In a statement, the US command emphasized that the strikes were authorized by the Commander-in-Chief. The primary objective of the operation is cited as further weakening Iran's ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Washington is holding Tehran accountable for "unjustified aggression" against commercial vessels and civilian crews traversing the strait.
According to Axios journalist Barak Ravid, citing a US official, the scale of Wednesday's attacks significantly exceeded yesterday's actions. This time, critically important military facilities were targeted: coastal radars of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), anti-ship missile positions, and air defense systems.
Consequences on Iranian Territory
Immediately following the announcement of the attacks, Iranian media began reporting on the aftermath in the southern part of the country. Power outages occurred in the port city of Chabahar, and local residents reported a series of explosions. Estimates suggest that around ten explosions were heard in the areas of Chabahar and Konarak. Reports of explosions also came from the city of Bushehr, where a nuclear power plant is located. However, sources clarified that the facility itself was not damaged.
Donald Trump's Reaction and Iranian Threats
US President Donald Trump reacted quickly to the events on his Truth Social microblog. He described the new strikes as "reckoning" for Iran's bombing of ships the previous day. "If this happens again, the situation will deteriorate significantly," warned the American leader.
In Iran, the response was no less harsh. The NourNews publication, citing the chairman of the Parliament's National Security Commission, reported preparations for a retaliatory attack. "Americans must know that we will deliver a crushing blow to them and deprive them of security, wherever they are in the world," stated the Iranian politician.
Geopolitical Context and Economy
These events are unfolding against the backdrop of a complete breakdown of diplomatic channels. At the NATO summit on July 8, Trump declared that the ceasefire with Iran has ended and the memorandum of understanding has been revoked. The US President also emphasized that he is not interested in negotiations with Tehran.
The economic consequences of the conflict are already being felt. Prior to the new series of attacks, the US revoked the license allowing Iran to export oil. Amidst this news, energy prices have risen again.
Experts note that one of the reasons for the Iranian attack on commercial vessels may have been a disagreement over shipping routes. Washington recommended that ships move closer to Oman, while Iran insisted on its own route and threatened attacks for any deviations.
