US Launches Airstrikes on Iranian Military Bases Amid Tensions Over Strait of Hormuz

The US carried out airstrikes on Iran late on Saturday. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), military bases in Assaluyeh, Bandar-e-Dair, Jask, and Chabahar, including the nuclear city of Bushehr, were targeted. Iranian media have confirmed explosions in these areas. According to the US, the action was in response to an attack on a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz. According to CENTCOM, the ship caught fire, the engine was heavily damaged, and one crew member is missing. Iran has also issued a stern warning after the attacks. Foreign Ministry adviser Ali Safari said the US will respond to the action. Iran has also made clear that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed as long as the US intervention continues. Iran wanted all ships to pass through its designated route and its transit authority to register them so that it could start collecting new shipping fees.