US-Iran war news updates: US launches fresh strikes on Iran as Trump warns it will attack 'very hard'

The United States carried out new airstrikes on Iran’s southwest region, targeting radar and air defense installations, as tensions escalated between Tehran and Washington. US President Donald Trump stated that American fighter aircraft were operating over Iran and warned that further strikes could occur as soon as the next day if negotiations failed. Iran responded with its first phase of retaliatory military operations, deploying missiles and drones following the US strikes. Iranian state media reported explosions in Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Minab, and Sirik near the Strait of Hormuz, confirming the impact of the attacks. The IRGC also claimed responsibility for a drone strike on a US naval facility in Bahrain, marking a direct escalation in the conflict. Iran’s military command announced it would target any vessel attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, and declared the waterway closed to all traffic. Trump claimed he had direct communications with Iranian officials urging an end to the bombing, suggesting the conflict could soon de-escalate but reserving the right to strike again if necessary. Iran dismissed Trump’s ceasefire claims as a “pure falsehood,” insisting it was responding to US attacks. Negotiations between Washington and Tehran reportedly broke down, raising concerns about further instability in the Gulf region. The rapid deterioration of diplomatic efforts leaves the possibility of additional military actions and broader regional repercussions.