US-Iran war news LIVE: US says latest round of airstrikes in Iran completed after hitting 140 targets

US-Iran War News LIVE: Airstrikes Target 140 Sites in Latest Strike

US Iran war news LIVE: The U.S. military has completed its third round of airstrikes in Iran, targeting 140 locations across the country to respond to a recent attack on a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation, announced by the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), underscores the ongoing tensions between the two nations and the U.S. commitment to protecting maritime routes critical to global trade. This decisive move follows escalating incidents in the region, with the U.S. emphasizing its readiness to hold Iran accountable for threats to international shipping.

Strategic Impact of the Airstrikes

Details of the strikes reveal a coordinated effort to disrupt Iranian military infrastructure, including command centers, supply depots, and key installations linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The attack on the Cyprus-flagged M/V GFS Galaxy, which was damaged earlier this week, served as the catalyst for the U.S. response. CENTCOM confirmed the strikes were part of a broader strategy to counter Iran’s aggressive posture in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for oil exports. The operation also aimed to signal a shift in the U.S. approach to regional security, with officials stressing the need for Iran to uphold its commitments under the ceasefire agreement.

“The strikes were executed to hold Iran responsible for its actions and to reinforce the U.S. resolve to safeguard maritime security in the region,” said CENTCOM in a statement released on X. “This operation demonstrates the effectiveness of our deterrence strategy and the importance of maintaining stability in critical waterways.”

Iran’s response to the airstrikes has been swift and defiant, with state media declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed “until further notice” to signal its willingness to escalate hostilities. The closure follows an incident where the IRGC fired warning shots at an unauthorised ship, causing it to halt operations. This move has raised concerns among global traders, as the strait accounts for approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply. Iran’s Foreign Ministry has framed the closure as a necessary retaliation for U.S. aggression, vowing to maintain the blockade until American influence is diminished in the area.

Regional Diplomacy Amid Escalation

In the wake of the airstrikes, regional diplomacy has intensified, with Iran seeking allies to counter U.S. pressure. On Saturday, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held urgent talks with Oman’s counterpart, Seyyed Badr Al-Busaidi, in Muscat. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral ties and coordinating efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Araghchi highlighted the importance of Omani mediation in easing tensions, noting that Tehran and Muscat share common interests in stabilising the Gulf region. The meeting also addressed the need for Iran to maintain its position while negotiating with the U.S. over the latest attacks.

“The agreement between Iran and Oman to enhance cooperation in the Strait of Hormuz is a crucial step toward resolving the current crisis,” Araghchi stated in a Telegram post. “Both sides agreed to explore joint mechanisms for ensuring the safe passage of vessels, including the implementation of Article 5 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.”

Meanwhile, the U.S. has intensified its diplomatic outreach, with officials urging Iran to publicly acknowledge its mistakes and resume negotiations. The Trump administration’s stance remains firm, citing the airstrikes as a necessary measure to deter further attacks on commercial ships. Analysts suggest that the U.S. may use the situation to pressure Iran into concessions, particularly regarding its nuclear program and regional military activities. As the conflict continues, the focus keyword “US Iran war news LIVE” remains central to tracking developments in this volatile standoff.

International reactions to the U.S. airstrikes have been mixed. While some countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have expressed support for the U.S. efforts to protect shipping lanes, others have called for restraint. The European Union has urged both sides to de-escalate tensions, warning of potential economic consequences if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed. Additionally, the United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire, highlighting the need for dialogue to prevent further regional destabilization.