US Reimposes Naval Blockade on Iran as Gulf Tensions Escalate

The United States has reinstated a naval blockade on Iranian ports, less than a month after both countries signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at easing tensions.

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces launched a new wave of military operations early Wednesday, targeting dozens of Iranian military facilities near the Strait of Hormuz and along Iran's southern coastline. The operation reportedly lasted seven hours and involved fighter jets, drones, and naval vessels striking missile sites, drone bases, naval assets, and coastal defence systems.

Iranian authorities said the attacks hit several locations, including a naval watchtower in Chabahar and a military base in Bampur, Sistan and Baluchestan Province. Tehran reported that more than 260 people were injured and over 30 civilians were killed in the latest strikes.

In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it launched missile and drone attacks against US military-related targets in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan. Kuwait confirmed that a naval vessel was struck, injuring four military personnel, while Bahrain activated air raid sirens. Jordan said its air defence systems intercepted several Iranian ballistic missiles that entered its airspace.

Iran has declared the recently signed MoU with the United States effectively void, accusing Washington of violating its commitments. The IRGC also warned that continued US actions could threaten oil and gas exports across the Middle East.

Meanwhile, the US Treasury announced fresh sanctions targeting cryptocurrency wallets allegedly linked to Iran's Central Bank. Iran's ambassador to the United Nations also accused the United States of acting as the aggressor and urged the international community to hold Washington accountable.

The renewed military exchanges have raised fears of a wider regional conflict and increased concerns over the security of shipping through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.

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