Iran said US missile strikes killed 11 people in Khuzestan, while Tehran launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks targeting US-linked interests in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, deepening the latest escalation in the conflict.

The US-Iran conflict escalated further on Wednesday after Iran reported that fresh US strikes had killed 11 people, while Tehran launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks against targets and US-linked interests in Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait.

Iranian state media reported that seven people were killed and eight injured in overnight US missile strikes on three locations in southwestern Khuzestan province. The latest casualties brought the number of deaths reported by Iranian authorities from the recent US strikes to 11.

The Iranian response followed a fresh series of US attacks on Iranian targets. US President Donald Trump said the strikes were carried out in retaliation for what he described as an Iranian attempt to place sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz and missile attacks directed at a US military facility in Jordan.

Iran targets US-linked positions in region

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said that Camp Titin in Jordan came under an intense ballistic missile attack. Jordan's military, however, said its air defence systems intercepted 10 ballistic missiles launched from Iran.

Jordanian authorities did not report casualties or confirm that the US training facility had been struck. The military also said three additional missiles landed in remote areas.

Iranian missile and drone activity was also reported in Kuwait, while warning sirens were heard in Bahrain.

Bahrain's Interior Ministry issued a third alert within six hours, warning residents of a potential threat and urging them to remain calm and move to a safe location.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards also warned Arab states hosting US forces that they could face a severe military response unless American troops and bases were removed from their territories. The warning specifically referenced Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan.

Wedding strike draws condemnation

The latest escalation follows US strikes earlier in the week that Iranian officials said killed civilians.

The Iranian Red Crescent said one US strike in the city of Kuhestak killed four people, including a child, and wounded more than 50 others during a wedding celebration.

Iran's embassy in India condemned the incident, saying a wedding had been turned into a funeral and expressing condolences to the victims' families.

The claims about casualties and damage come primarily from Iranian authorities and have not been independently verified in all cases.

Strait of Hormuz faces further disruption

The conflict is also putting fresh pressure on the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy and shipping route.

Preliminary tracking data cited by Reuters showed that only four commodity vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday, compared with 10 the previous day and a 10-day average of around 13. The vessels included a very large crude carrier, a Panamax tanker, a Kamsarmax carrier and an intermediate tanker. The figures could change because some vessels switch off their tracking transponders during transit. 

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that the latest US strikes could further restrict traffic through the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz carried roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption before the conflict intensified, making any prolonged disruption a major concern for energy markets.

Traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait was also below its recent average, with 18 commodity vessels recorded on Tuesday against a 10-day average of about 24. 

Oil prices climb

The latest exchange of strikes pushed oil prices higher as traders assessed the possibility of further supply disruptions.

Brent crude futures rose 87 cents, or 0.92%, to $95.52 a barrel in Wednesday trading, according to the figures cited in the live updates.

With tensions now spreading across multiple Gulf locations and commercial shipping through Hormuz remaining sharply below normal levels, energy markets are closely watching whether the latest escalation leads to a longer disruption of regional oil flows.

The situation remains fluid, with further Iranian retaliation and additional US military action possible as both sides respond to the latest attacks.

A container ship carrying 21 Indian sailors came under fire from Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz on April 22, with newly released footage showing vessels linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) surrounding the ship during the incident.

The video, released by the Federation of Seafarers’ Associations of India (FSUI), reportedly captures the moments following the attack. The footage shows broken glass and belongings scattered inside the vessel, while Iranian fast boats can be seen moving around the ship.

All 21 Indian sailors on board reportedly survived the incident after taking shelter inside the vessel during the attack.

Video Shows Iranian Boats

According to the footage, several fast boats associated with the IRGC approached the container ship. One image appears to show an armed IRGC personnel on a fast boat carrying a rocket launcher.

The video also appears to capture a projectile being fired towards the ship. The vessel's windscreen was reportedly damaged during the incident, while objects inside the ship were thrown around following the attack.

The sailors took cover inside the vessel as the confrontation unfolded.

India Tightens Sailor Deployment

The incident comes against the backdrop of growing security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz and other strategically important waterways in the Gulf region.

India had already taken steps to reduce risks to its maritime workforce. On July 16, the government stopped the fresh deployment of Indian sailors on ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz and the Arabian Gulf until further orders.

The restriction applies to new deployment of Indian seafarers and does not directly cover Indian sailors recruited outside the country by foreign shipping companies.

Indian authorities have also advised ship owners, ship-management companies and recruitment firms to exercise greater caution while operating in the region.

Indian Sailors Killed In Region

According to the report, at least 14 Indian sailors have been killed in attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz since February 28.

The latest footage has renewed concerns about the safety of Indian seafarers working on commercial vessels operating through waters affected by military tensions and attacks.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime route for global energy supplies and has remained particularly sensitive amid wider regional tensions.

Cargo Ship Hijacked Off Somalia

Separately, a cargo ship carrying six Indian nationals was reportedly hijacked off the Puntland coast of Somalia.

The Cameroon-flagged M/V LUTUF was carrying 10 people, including six Indians, a Turkish national, a Georgian national and two Serbian security personnel. The vessel was reportedly seized on August 17 near Maraya in Somalia's Eyl district before being taken towards the Nugaal coast.

Somali officials said eight pirates took control of the vessel. Turkish vessels subsequently reached the area and began monitoring the ship using helicopters and drones.

An airstrike later killed four people and injured two others after a small boat approached the vessel. However, the identity of those targeted and their connection with the hijacking remained unclear.

The current status of the vessel and all members of its crew was also not immediately clear.

Houthi Attack Kills Pakistani Sailors

Maritime security concerns have also affected other South Asian seafarers.

The bodies of two Pakistani sailors killed in a Houthi attack reached Karachi on Thursday. Six other Pakistani sailors who were injured in the incident also returned safely to Pakistan.

The attack took place on August 11 against the Tanzanian-flagged Tihama in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. Three Pakistani sailors and one Indonesian sailor were reported killed.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar condemned the attack and stressed the need to ensure the safety of seafarers operating in dangerous maritime zones.

Rising Concern Over Maritime Safety

The incidents involving Indian, Pakistani and other international crews highlight the growing risks faced by commercial shipping personnel operating through conflict-affected and strategically important waterways.

For India, the security of its large seafaring workforce has become a particular concern as commercial vessels continue to navigate the Gulf, Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters.

The release of the Hormuz attack footage is likely to add to calls for stronger security measures for Indian sailors and greater coordination between shipping companies and government agencies.

Iran has appointed veteran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Mohsen Rezaei as the new secretary of the Supreme National Security Council (SNSC), placing one of the country's most experienced military figures at the centre of its national security decision-making.

The appointment comes at a particularly sensitive moment for Tehran, with tensions involving the United States and Israel continuing and the Strait of Hormuz remaining a major point of contention. Rezaei has also been appointed as Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei's representative on the council, underlining the importance of his new position. (Reuters)

Rezaei, 71, replaces Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, who held the SNSC secretary post for only a few months. Zolghadr has been moved to the position of political adviser to the Supreme Leader. The reshuffle has drawn attention because of Rezaei's long military career and his reputation as a hardline figure in Iran's political establishment. (Reuters)

A Veteran of Iran's Military

Born in Khuzestan in 1954, Rezaei became involved in Islamist opposition groups before the 1979 Iranian Revolution. He later joined the newly established IRGC and, at just 27, was appointed commander of the force in 1981.

He remained in charge of the IRGC for about 16 years, including through most of the 1980-1988 Iran-Iraq War. During his tenure, the IRGC developed from a revolutionary paramilitary organisation into a major military institution with ground, naval and aerospace capabilities.

His wartime record remains a major part of his political identity. Rezaei was associated with Iran's decision to continue military operations after Iranian forces had pushed Iraqi troops back across the border in the early stages of the conflict. Reuters describes him as a seasoned hardliner with decades of military and political experience. (Reuters)

From General to Political Figure

After leaving the IRGC command in 1997, Rezaei moved into senior political and institutional positions.

He served for years as secretary of Iran's Expediency Discernment Council, a powerful body involved in resolving disputes between parliament and the Guardian Council. He later became vice president for economic affairs under President Ebrahim Raisi.

Rezaei has also contested Iran's presidential elections several times, although he never won the presidency. His long career has given him experience across both Iran's military and political establishments.

Why His Appointment Matters

The SNSC is one of Iran's most important national security bodies. It brings together senior political, military and security officials and plays a central role in decisions concerning defence, foreign policy and major strategic issues.

Rezaei's appointment therefore goes beyond a routine change of personnel. His elevation gives a senior IRGC veteran a prominent role at a time when Tehran is dealing with military pressure, negotiations and disputes over regional security.

The appointment is also significant because Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei separately named Rezaei as his representative on the council. Reuters reported that the move reflects Rezaei's extensive military and security experience. (Reuters)

Strait of Hormuz in Focus

One of the most important issues facing Rezaei is the future of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.

The route is critical to global energy markets because a substantial share of internationally traded oil passes through the region. Any prolonged disruption could therefore have consequences far beyond Iran and the Gulf.

Rezaei has previously taken a strong position on Iranian control over the waterway. His appointment comes while Tehran and Washington remain divided over sanctions, military deployments and arrangements for commercial shipping.

Reuters reported that talks mediated by Oman have been aimed at reopening the waterway, but major disagreements remain between Iran and the United States. (Reuters)

A Harder Line From Tehran?

The appointment has prompted questions over whether Iran is preparing for a tougher security and negotiating posture.

Rezaei has a long record of opposing concessions that he believes could weaken Iran's strategic position. His military background could make him an influential voice in discussions involving the United States, Israel, Gulf states and Iran's regional security interests.

However, his appointment alone does not necessarily establish a completely new Iranian policy. Reuters noted that no official explanation was immediately given for the leadership change or any specific policy shift resulting from it. (Reuters)

What Comes Next

Rezaei's immediate challenge will be to balance Iran's military priorities with diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

For Tehran, the issues are closely connected: the future of the Strait of Hormuz, US sanctions, regional military deployments and negotiations over security arrangements all affect Iran's broader strategy.

His appointment indicates that military experience will have an important place in that strategy. Whether Rezaei becomes the face of a tougher Iranian position or helps consolidate a more coordinated approach between the country's political and military leadership will become clearer as negotiations and regional tensions develop.

Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has appeared in a video for the first time since the end of the recent war, with the footage showing him sitting among people and speaking to them. The video was released by Iran’s Mehr news agency and has attracted attention because Mojtaba had largely remained out of public view since becoming the country’s Supreme Leader. However, Iranian authorities have not revealed when the video was recorded, leaving questions about his current condition and whereabouts.

Mojtaba’s appearance comes after several days of speculation about his health. Israeli Channel 14, citing sources, had claimed that his condition was serious and that he had been hospitalised. Some reports had even suggested that his health had deteriorated to the point where his death could be imminent. The newly released footage appears to challenge at least some of those claims, although it does not provide enough information to independently establish his current medical condition. Mojtaba can be seen seated among a group of people and interacting with them, but there is no detailed information about the circumstances in which the video was recorded.

Questions about his whereabouts had also intensified because Mojtaba had not appeared publicly after taking over as Iran’s Supreme Leader. He had not delivered a televised address or made a public speech, while Iranian state media had mainly published written messages in his name. According to reports in Iranian media, he also did not meet ministers publicly after the death of his father and former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He was reportedly absent from his father’s funeral as well. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had previously acknowledged that establishing direct contact with Mojtaba was difficult.

Saudi media outlet Al Hadath had earlier reported, citing an Israeli security source, that Mojtaba was not in Iran at the time. The report also claimed that official statements issued in his name were being prepared by senior officials, including newly appointed Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps chief Ahmad Vahidi. These claims have not been independently verified, and Iranian authorities have continued to reject speculation surrounding Mojtaba’s health.

There had been similar reports earlier about injuries allegedly suffered by Mojtaba during US-Israeli strikes on February 28. Some Israeli media reports claimed that he had been seriously injured and was receiving treatment at a secret location. A New York Times report had also said that doctors were treating him at a secure site and that he had undergone multiple surgeries. Claims included serious injuries to one leg, with speculation that he might require an artificial limb, as well as surgery on one of his hands. Reports also suggested injuries to his face and lips that could have affected his ability to speak. Iranian officials rejected those claims and said that Mojtaba had not suffered serious injuries.

The latest video therefore becomes significant mainly because of the limited public information available about the new Supreme Leader. It shows Mojtaba alive and apparently interacting with people, but the footage alone does not establish when it was filmed or provide a complete picture of his health. The lack of a date and details surrounding the recording means that earlier questions about his public absence may not be completely resolved.

Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, is the second son of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He became Iran’s Supreme Leader following his father’s death. Before taking the top position, Mojtaba maintained a relatively low public profile but was widely described as an influential figure behind the scenes. He never contested an election and did not hold a formal government position, yet he was believed to have strong connections with his father’s office, the IRGC and Iran’s security establishment.

Mojtaba served with the IRGC during the later period of the Iran-Iraq War and later studied Shia theology and Islamic law in Qom. His name also emerged during the political unrest that followed Iran’s 2009 presidential election. In 2019, the United States imposed sanctions on him, alleging that he exercised influence and represented his father despite holding no elected office.

The emergence of the new footage is likely to fuel further discussion about Mojtaba’s health, security arrangements and role in Iran’s post-war leadership. For now, the video provides a rare public glimpse of the new Supreme Leader, but many details surrounding his recent absence remain unclear.

Unverified reports about the health of Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei have renewed attention on the country’s constitutional succession process and the possible contenders for the powerful post.

An Israeli broadcaster, Channel 14, has claimed that Khamenei is in an “extremely critical” condition. However, there has been no official confirmation from Tehran regarding his reported health condition.

The speculation intensified after Khamenei remained largely out of public view following his reported succession to his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. On Saturday, August 8, Iran’s semi-official Mehr News Agency released an undated video purportedly showing Mojtaba Khamenei. However, it remains unclear when the footage was recorded, and the circumstances surrounding it could not be independently verified.

What Happens If Leader Cannot Serve?

Iran’s Constitution provides a mechanism for dealing with a vacancy or temporary inability of the Supreme Leader to perform his duties.

Under Article 111, if the Supreme Leader dies, resigns, is removed from office or is temporarily unable to carry out his responsibilities, a three-member Interim Leadership Council assumes his duties until a permanent successor is selected.

The council consists of the President of Iran, the head of the judiciary and a religious jurist from the Guardian Council, selected according to the constitutional procedure.

The interim arrangement is intended to ensure that the powers of the Supreme Leader continue to be exercised while the succession process is completed.

Assembly of Experts Chooses Successor

The authority to select Iran’s Supreme Leader rests with the 88-member Assembly of Experts.

If the office becomes vacant, the Assembly is constitutionally responsible for selecting a new leader. The Supreme Leader holds extensive authority over Iran’s military and security institutions, judiciary, foreign policy and other major state bodies.

A leadership transition would therefore have major implications for Iran’s domestic politics as well as its relations with the United States, Israel and other regional powers.

Alireza Arafi Among Possible Names

Several senior clerics and political figures have previously been discussed as potential candidates for the country's top position.

Ayatollah Alireza Arafi is one of the names that has attracted attention. A senior cleric and prominent figure in Iran’s religious establishment, Arafi has served on the Guardian Council and was also part of the interim leadership arrangement following Ali Khamenei’s death.

His links to Iran’s seminary establishment could make him a significant figure in any succession debate.

Hosseini Bushehri Also in Focus

Another senior cleric frequently mentioned in discussions surrounding Iran’s future leadership is Ayatollah Hashem Hosseini Bushehri.

He has strong connections with Iran’s religious establishment in Qom and has held senior positions within the Assembly of Experts.

His experience within Iran’s clerical institutions could place him among the figures considered if the Assembly is required to choose a new Supreme Leader.

Mohseni-Ejei Represents Hardline Camp

Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, Iran’s judiciary chief, is another prominent figure who has been mentioned as a possible contender.

Mohseni-Ejei has spent decades working within Iran’s judiciary and security establishment and is regarded as a hardline figure within the Islamic Republic.

His extensive experience in the state’s security and judicial structures could make him an influential player during any leadership transition.

Hassan Khomeini Another Possibility

Hassan Khomeini, grandson of Islamic Republic founder Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, has also appeared in discussions about a possible future succession.

However, his political positioning differs from that of several hardline figures associated with Iran’s current establishment. His potential candidacy would therefore depend heavily on the political balance within the Assembly of Experts and other centres of power.

Could Collective Leadership Emerge?

Iran’s constitutional framework also allows for the possibility of a collective leadership arrangement under certain circumstances.

If the Assembly of Experts cannot agree on an individual successor, a leadership council could potentially emerge as an alternative. Such an arrangement would represent a major departure from Iran’s traditional system, in which a single Supreme Leader occupies the country’s highest political and religious office.

Whether such an option would gain support would depend on the political circumstances surrounding any leadership transition.

IRGC Could Gain Greater Influence

Any sudden leadership vacuum could also increase the political influence of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The IRGC is one of Iran’s most powerful institutions, with extensive influence over the country’s military, security and economic affairs. During a period of uncertainty, the organisation could play an important role in shaping the succession process and supporting a candidate viewed as acceptable to the security establishment.

However, the precise role of the IRGC would depend on the circumstances of the transition and the balance of power among Iran’s clerical, political and security institutions.

For now, the reports about Mojtaba Khamenei’s health remain unverified, and no official announcement has indicated that Iran has begun a formal succession process.

 The prolonged absence of Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei from public view has reportedly become one of the highest-priority intelligence concerns for the United States and Israel, with reports claiming that both the CIA and Mossad are actively trying to determine his location and operational status.

According to reports citing Western intelligence sources, Mojtaba Khamenei has remained out of the public eye for nearly five months after assuming Iran's highest political and religious office in March 2026, following the reported death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a US-Israeli strike on Tehran's leadership compound.

Since taking over, Mojtaba has not delivered a televised address, appeared at public events or engaged in conventional official communications, creating uncertainty over his whereabouts and the extent of his control over Iran's leadership.

Intelligence Agencies Face Tracking Challenges

Reports indicate that American and Israeli intelligence agencies have struggled to trace Mojtaba Khamenei because of an unusually strict security protocol.

Unlike previous Iranian leaders, he is believed to avoid using mobile phones, computers and other digital communication devices. Intelligence officials quoted in international media claim that he relies on handwritten messages delivered through trusted couriers associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The absence of electronic communications has significantly limited intelligence agencies' ability to intercept messages or monitor his movements.

Underground Bunker Speculation

Security analysts believe Mojtaba Khamenei may be operating from a heavily fortified underground command facility in Tehran or from a network of secure locations near the religious city of Qom.

Some former intelligence officials have also suggested that Iran could be employing elaborate deception measures, including the use of security decoys, to conceal the Supreme Leader's location.

His continued disappearance from public life has also sparked speculation regarding his health following the military strike that reportedly killed his father earlier this year.

Although US intelligence assessments reportedly indicate that Mojtaba remains alive and continues to exercise authority, rumours persist that he may have suffered injuries during the attack.

Leadership Questions Continue

Questions over Iran's leadership intensified after Mojtaba skipped the country's traditional Nowruz address in March, choosing instead to release a brief written statement through official communication channels.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly stated that he has personally met the Supreme Leader, although intelligence agencies reportedly remain uncertain about when and where those meetings occurred.

The lack of visual confirmation has fuelled continued speculation among international observers regarding the functioning of Iran's political leadership.

IRGC Playing Larger Role

The reports come at a time of continuing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, including concerns over nuclear infrastructure, regional security and maritime activity around the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts believe Mojtaba's rise to power received strong backing from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which has assumed an increasingly prominent role in military decision-making and internal security during his absence from public life.

Western governments are closely monitoring whether the IRGC has gained greater influence over Iran's strategic and defence policies while the Supreme Leader continues to operate under extraordinary secrecy.

Growing International Attention

The unusual level of secrecy surrounding Iran's highest office has made Mojtaba Khamenei one of the most closely watched figures in international intelligence circles.

While Iranian authorities have maintained that the country's leadership remains fully functional, the absence of public appearances has continued to generate speculation about decision-making inside Tehran and the balance of power between civilian institutions and the military establishment.

Officials in Washington and Tel Aviv have not publicly commented on the reported intelligence operations, but analysts believe developments surrounding Iran's leadership will remain under close international scrutiny amid ongoing regional tensions.

US Central Command said Iran fired a series of ballistic missiles at a US base in Jordan late Tuesday, in what it described as a "surprise attack." All the missiles were intercepted, according to CENTCOM, and Jordan's military said its own air defences separately shot down five missiles launched from Iran. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said its air force had targeted the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base and a CENTCOM facility in Jordan, and separately confirmed it had struck vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. In a statement carried by Iranian state media, the IRGC said its "resistance" would continue as long as it viewed American actions against Iran's interests as continuing.

Trump responded with unusually blunt language in a Fox News interview Wednesday, vowing the US would hit Iran "hard" and that "they're going to get a beating," using considerably harsher, profanity-laced language in describing the intended response. He said US forces had only minutes to shoot down the incoming Iranian missiles targeting Jordan.

Hours after the Jordan attack, US and Saudi forces launched joint airstrikes on pro-Iran militia targets in eastern Iraq, killing at least 20 members of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces and wounding 32 others, according to the group itself. CENTCOM and Saudi Arabia said the strikes targeted Iran-backed militias responsible for recent attacks on US troops and Saudi energy infrastructure, adding that the operation had been coordinated with the Iraqi government. Trump described the pro-Iranian militia groups as a "cancer on the world."

The exchange marks the most serious flare-up since Trump abruptly suspended a 13-day US bombing campaign against Iran the previous Friday, citing what he called "good talks" underway with Tehran. That pause had briefly halted hostilities, with Iran also appearing to stand down its own strikes over the weekend — a lull that lasted only a few days before Tuesday night's attack reignited the conflict.

Despite the renewed fighting, Trump indicated he still intends to let US negotiators continue talks with Iran, even though the latest strikes have disrupted some diplomatic engagement, with Iran reportedly taking a defiant tone in discussing the negotiations. Israel, which struck Iran alongside the US in an earlier, larger wave of combat operations this year, is not a party to the current round of talks and has not participated in this latest exchange.

With both sides now trading strikes again after barely a week of calm, the coming days are likely to determine whether this marks a temporary escalation or a full collapse of the ceasefire framework that had briefly held.

Regional tensions in the Middle East continued to escalate on Monday after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed it had launched attacks against American military facilities located in Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, and other locations across the region. The claims were accompanied by another announcement from the IRGC stating that it had shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Iran's Khuzestan Province.

The latest developments come amid continuing military operations and heightened security concerns involving Iran and the United States. While Iran has publicly announced the attacks and the alleged drone interception, several of its claims have not been independently verified, and the United States has not confirmed key aspects of the announcements.

According to statements released by the IRGC, its military operation targeted multiple U.S. military installations in the Middle East. Iranian officials described the attacks as part of an ongoing campaign and stated that military operations would continue. However, they did not provide detailed information regarding the extent of the reported strikes or any confirmed damage at the targeted locations.

No official confirmation has been issued by the U.S. Department of Defense regarding the reported attacks on American military bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, or elsewhere. Independent verification of battlefield claims remains difficult because of the rapidly changing security situation in the region.

The IRGC also claimed that it intercepted and destroyed an American MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle near Ahvaz in Iran's Khuzestan Province. Iranian state media released a video that it said showed the drone being brought down. However, the authenticity of the footage has not been independently verified.

As of the time of publication, the United States had not confirmed the reported loss of an MQ-9 Reaper drone. Military officials have not publicly commented on the Iranian claim or the video circulated by Iranian state media.

The MQ-9 Reaper is among the most advanced unmanned aerial systems operated by the United States military. It is widely used for intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance missions, and, when required, precision strike operations. The aircraft has played a significant role in various U.S. military operations around the world due to its long endurance, advanced sensors, and ability to carry precision-guided weapons.

Military experts note that any confirmed loss of such a platform would be operationally significant. However, until official confirmation or independent evidence becomes available, the status of the reported drone incident remains uncertain.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) released a video through its official social media channels showing preparations aboard the USS Boxer (LHD-4), an amphibious assault ship operating in the Arabian Sea. According to CENTCOM, F-35B Lightning II stealth fighter aircraft assigned to the vessel have been placed on operational readiness.

The F-35B is a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed with short takeoff and vertical landing capabilities, allowing it to operate from amphibious assault ships and shorter runways where conventional fighter aircraft cannot be deployed. Its stealth characteristics, advanced sensors, and precision strike capability make it one of the most sophisticated combat aircraft currently in service.

Defense analysts believe the deployment of F-35B aircraft aboard forward-positioned naval vessels enhances operational flexibility during periods of regional instability. The aircraft can rapidly respond to evolving security situations while supporting a range of defensive and offensive missions if required.

The latest military announcements from both Iran and the United States underscore the continuing volatility across the Middle East. With both sides maintaining a heightened military posture, international observers remain concerned about the possibility of further escalation.

Governments across the region continue to monitor developments closely, while diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions remain ongoing. Several countries have urged restraint and called on all parties to avoid actions that could expand the conflict beyond its current scope.

International security experts have also emphasized the importance of verifying battlefield claims through independent sources before drawing conclusions. During periods of armed conflict, information released by the parties involved may not immediately be confirmed by neutral observers due to restricted access and operational security considerations.

As military activity continues, attention remains focused on official statements from both Tehran and Washington regarding the reported attacks, the alleged drone interception, and future military operations. The evolving situation is expected to remain a major focus of international security and diplomatic discussions in the coming days.

The United States carried out another round of military strikes against targets in Iran on Monday, marking the ninth consecutive night of military operations amid continuing regional hostilities. According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the strikes targeted multiple military facilities, including command centers, air defense systems, missile infrastructure, and drone launch sites.

The latest wave of operations comes as tensions between the United States and Iran remain elevated, with military activity continuing across several parts of the Middle East. Officials said the strikes were aimed at degrading military capabilities considered relevant to ongoing operations, although the full extent of the damage has not yet been independently verified.

Following the reported strikes, local reports from northwestern Iran indicated that a fire broke out at a missile facility near Tabriz. Residents in the area claimed flames were visible after explosions were heard. The reports have not been independently verified, and Iranian authorities have not publicly released a detailed assessment of the reported damage at the time of writing.

The missile complex is widely reported to be associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force, one of Iran's principal military organizations responsible for missile and aerospace operations. However, there has been no independent confirmation regarding the operational status of the facility following the reported attack.

According to CENTCOM, the latest strikes were directed at military objectives that included command-and-control facilities, integrated air defense systems, missile launch infrastructure, and drone launch sites. U.S. officials stated that the operations were intended to reduce military capabilities linked to ongoing regional security concerns.

Military analysts note that targeting such infrastructure is generally intended to limit an adversary's operational capacity by disrupting command networks and reducing the ability to launch missiles or unmanned aerial systems. However, independent assessments regarding the effectiveness of the strikes are still awaited.

While military operations continued inside Iran, the United States also confirmed the death of one of its service members in neighboring Iraq. According to CENTCOM, the soldier was killed while participating in an operation to safely dispose of an unexploded Iranian drone in northern Iraq.

The U.S. military stated that another American service member was injured during the same incident and is currently receiving medical treatment. Officials did not immediately provide additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the operation or the condition of the injured soldier.

With the latest casualty, the reported number of U.S. military personnel killed during the current conflict has risen to 17, according to figures released by the U.S. military. Authorities have expressed condolences to the family of the deceased service member while reaffirming their commitment to ongoing operations in the region.

The death highlights the continuing dangers faced by military personnel even after active combat operations have concluded. Unexploded drones, missiles, and other explosive devices remain significant hazards during post-strike clearance operations, requiring specialized explosive ordnance disposal teams.

The broader regional security situation remains highly volatile, with military actions and countermeasures continuing across multiple locations in the Middle East. Governments and international observers continue to monitor developments closely amid concerns that the conflict could have wider geopolitical consequences.

Analysts believe that sustained military operations by both sides increase the risk of further escalation, particularly if strategic military infrastructure continues to be targeted. Diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions have so far shown limited progress as military engagements continue.

The ongoing conflict has also prompted heightened security measures across several neighboring countries, where governments remain alert to the possibility of cross-border security incidents. Military installations, diplomatic facilities, and critical infrastructure throughout the region continue to operate under increased security protocols.

International organizations and several world leaders have repeatedly urged restraint and called for diplomatic dialogue to prevent further escalation. Humanitarian agencies have also expressed concern over the broader impact of continued military operations on regional stability and civilian populations.

Despite these appeals, military operations have continued, with both sides maintaining defensive and offensive activities. Independent verification of battlefield developments remains difficult because of restricted access to many affected areas and the rapidly evolving security situation.

As the conflict enters another phase, international attention remains focused on developments in Iran, Iraq, and the wider Middle East. Officials are expected to continue assessing the impact of the latest strikes while monitoring the regional security environment for any further escalation or diplomatic developments.

Fresh airstrikes, maritime blockade, and threats against Iran's infrastructure deepen regional tensions as Tehran accuses the US of war crimes at the United Nations.

The United States has carried out military strikes against Iran for the fourth consecutive day, significantly escalating tensions in West Asia despite recent diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing hostilities. Alongside sustained air operations, Washington has imposed a renewed maritime blockade on Iranian ports, intensifying pressure on Tehran to return to negotiations over its nuclear programme and regional security issues.

US President Donald Trump warned that military operations would continue unless Iran resumed talks, indicating that American forces could expand their campaign to include strategic infrastructure.

Speaking to Fox News, Trump said the United States would continue striking Iranian targets and warned that power plants and bridges could become future targets if diplomatic efforts failed.

"We will continue until a deal is reached," Trump said, adding that ground operations remained an option if required, though any such move would likely involve allied support.

Fresh Strikes Across Southern Iran

According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), American fighter aircraft, naval assets and drones conducted nearly seven hours of coordinated military operations targeting missile launch sites, drone facilities, coastal defence systems and naval installations near the Strait of Hormuz and southern Iranian coastline.

Explosions were reported in multiple locations, including the coastal city of Sirik, although the full extent of the damage has not been independently verified.

The United States has also reimposed restrictions on vessels entering and leaving Iranian ports, effectively restoring a naval blockade that officials say is intended to limit Iran's military logistics and increase economic pressure.

Iran Responds With Regional Threats

Iran has strongly condemned the latest US military action, accusing Washington of violating previous understandings and deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure.

In a letter addressed to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, Iran's Permanent Representative Amir Saeid Iravani described the United States as the "aggressor" in the conflict and alleged that recent attacks amounted to war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks targeting US military facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, though these claims have not been independently confirmed.

The IRGC also warned that regional energy infrastructure and oil export routes associated with the United States and its allies could become legitimate targets if hostilities continued.

Tehran further declared that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until what it described as "US acts of aggression" came to an end, raising concerns over global energy supplies.

Regional Security Concerns Grow

Jordan said its air defence systems intercepted three ballistic missiles that entered its airspace from Iran.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Security Council voted to extend monitoring of Houthi attacks in the Red Sea for another six months, reflecting growing concerns over maritime security throughout the region.

The resolution received support from 13 members of the Security Council, while China and Russia abstained.

Political Divisions Deepen in the US

The expanding conflict has also intensified political debate in Washington.

Several Democratic lawmakers have announced support for proposals aimed at ending US military assistance to Israel, arguing that American military involvement across the region should be reassessed.

Representative Greg Casar backed efforts to halt additional military funding, while Congressman Ro Khanna said he would oppose further aid packages linked to ongoing military operations in Gaza.

Key Flashpoints Behind the Crisis

The renewed confrontation stems from multiple unresolved disputes, including Iran's nuclear programme, US economic sanctions, maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, and broader competition for strategic influence across West Asia.

Approximately one-fifth of global crude oil supplies transit through the Strait of Hormuz, making any disruption to shipping a significant concern for international energy markets.

As military operations continue on both sides, diplomatic channels remain stalled, with no immediate indication that negotiations will resume.

The warning came hours after the IRGC Navy declared the strait closed, saying it had fired warning shots at a vessel attempting to cross using an unauthorized route. Iran's statement said any ship failing to comply with its designated navigation routes would face an "immediate and forceful response" from its armed forces, and separately cautioned that US military involvement in the strait would draw its own swift retaliation. The US, for its part, has repeatedly called on Iran to keep the strait open to international shipping and ensure vessel safety, arguing the waterway falls outside any single country's control.

The latest exchange is the newest flashpoint in a war that has run since February 28, when the US and Israel launched an air campaign against Iran, and which has repeatedly spilled into the Gulf's shipping lanes. The strait, through which roughly a quarter of the world's seaborne oil trade normally passes, has seen traffic collapse since the conflict began, with tens of thousands of stranded mariners and vessels reported at points during the crisis.

The immediate trigger for Saturday's warning traces back to a rapid escalation earlier in the week. On July 7, Iranian forces struck two tankers in the strait — the Qatari-owned Al Rekayat and the Saudi-flagged Wedyan — prompting the US Treasury to reimpose sanctions on Iranian oil exports that had briefly been lifted under an earlier ceasefire framework. A third vessel was hit within 24 hours, and CENTCOM responded with a wave of strikes on Iranian military sites near the strait, which Iran's military vowed to answer with a "crushing response." Iran's negotiating team was defiant in the aftermath, with negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf writing online that Tehran would not back down under pressure.

By Sunday, the US had launched a fresh round of strikes after an Iranian attack set a Cyprus-flagged container ship ablaze in the strait, leaving one crew member missing. Iran responded with strikes on Bahrain, Qatar and the UAE, triggering missile alerts across the Gulf; Qatar's military said it intercepted the incoming fire. Oman, which shares territorial waters around the strait with Iran, has been attempting to mediate, with the two countries' foreign ministers meeting Saturday to discuss de-escalation.

As of Sunday, neither side has signalled a shift in position. Iran has said the strait will remain closed "until further notice," while the US continues to insist on unrestricted passage for international shipping — leaving the waterway, and the fragile ceasefire framework built around it, in continued jeopardy.

Iran’s newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is expected to make his first public appearance on Saturday, leading a memorial ceremony for his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, at the Hazrat Masoumeh Shrine in Qom, according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency.

The event is expected to draw significant national and international attention, as Mojtaba has remained out of public view since the outbreak of the recent conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States. His absence has fueled widespread speculation over his role in the country’s leadership transition following the death of his father.

Regional Tensions Continue

The anticipated appearance comes against the backdrop of renewed military tensions in the Middle East. Israeli media outlet Kan reported that Israel is preparing another military operation against Iran in coordination with the United States and is awaiting approval from US President Donald Trump.

According to the report, Israeli officials believe the confrontation between Washington and Tehran could continue for several more days. Separately, the New York Post, citing a source in Jerusalem, reported that Israel remains prepared to launch further strikes if it considers them necessary, while seeking to avoid prolonged disruption for its own civilian population.

Fresh Claims of Military Action

In another development, an Iranian official claimed that the United States carried out an airstrike on the Bushehr nuclear facility, though no casualties were reported.

Iran has also claimed responsibility for retaliatory missile attacks targeting US military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Authorities in the three countries said their air defence systems intercepted multiple missiles and drones, preventing damage.

Tehran further accused the United States of launching a cruise missile strike on a strategic railway bridge in northern Iran linked to trade routes connecting China and Russia. Iranian officials described the alleged attack as a violation of international law.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Under Watch

The conflict has continued to affect global energy markets. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, was temporarily disrupted following the latest escalation.

Although maritime traffic has begun recovering gradually, uncertainty in the region pushed international crude oil prices higher. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reported that global oil inventories increased by 21 million barrels in June, while forecasting stronger oil demand growth in 2027 despite a slowdown expected next year.

Iran has also reportedly shifted around 10 million barrels of crude oil and fuel reserves amid concerns that future military action or sanctions could disrupt exports.

Netanyahu Says Conflict Not Over

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the conflict with Iran "is not over" and warned that new security challenges could emerge in the coming days.

Speaking at an Israeli Air Force event, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel would not allow Iran to develop nuclear weapons, regardless of future diplomatic negotiations. He maintained that Israel remains prepared for any scenario and defended recent military actions as necessary for national security.

Iran Vows Retaliation

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also hardened its stance following the death of Ali Khamenei.

IRGC commander Brigadier-General Ahmad Vahidi pledged retaliation against both the United States and Israel, stating that those responsible for the assassination would face justice. He said the killing would not weaken Iran’s Islamic Revolution or the broader "Resistance Front."

Meanwhile, Iran held funeral ceremonies for the late Supreme Leader in Mashhad, with thousands attending the final rites earlier this week.

With Mojtaba Khamenei expected to address supporters publicly for the first time since assuming leadership, regional observers will closely watch the ceremony for signals about Iran’s future political direction and its response to the ongoing conflict.