US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran launches retaliatory strikes on American bases; US says will 'negotiate with bombs'
Iran launched retaliatory strikes on 18 US bases hosting American troops after US forces conducted sustained military operations targeting Iranian facilities, including civilian water infrastructure. The conflict escalated with Iran closing the Strait of Hormuz and reporting clashes with US naval forces, while Bahrain issued air raid warnings as tensions spread across the Middle East.
The latest escalation in the US-Iran conflict began after US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new military offensive against Tehran. Hegseth, speaking from US Central Command headquarters in Florida, warned of 'strong' and 'clear' strikes targeting key Iranian facilities, framing the operation as both a military and diplomatic strategy. President Donald Trump later authorized additional strikes against multiple Iranian targets, citing 'unwarranted aggression' by Iran. Iranian state media reported explosions and defensive operations across the country following the US strikes. Air defense systems were activated in western Tehran and Fars province, while explosions were documented in Bandar Abbas, Sirik, Minab, Kangan, Gorgan, Karaj, and the islands of Qeshm and Hengam. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, accused the US of deliberately attacking civilian water infrastructure in Sirik, calling it a 'calculated war crime' and a violation of international law. Clashes erupted in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iranian media claimed exchanges of fire between US naval forces and the IRGC Navy. The IRGC also reported downing an F-16 fighter jet over Gulf airspace after firing a missile at it. In response, Iran’s top joint military command ordered the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, banning all vessels, including oil tankers, from transiting the waterway and warning of attacks on any violators. Bahrain issued air raid warnings as tensions heightened, prompting residents to seek shelter. Iran retaliated by launching a two-wave strike targeting 18 installations at US bases in the region, according to Tasnim news agency. The operation followed Iran’s claim that US forces had struck coastal locations, including Bandar Abbas, Sirik, Qeshm Island, and Hengam Island, further intensifying regional instability. The conflict risks broader disruption, with Iran warning that any future confrontation would not be limited to the Middle East. The US has signaled sustained military pressure on Tehran, while Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz threatens global energy supplies. The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging accusations and escalating military actions.
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