WASHINGTON — The United States carried out a new round of strikes against Iranian military targets on Friday, marking the seventh consecutive night of American attacks, as the conflict with Tehran continued to widen despite international calls for de-escalation.
U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation, conducted under the direction of President Donald Trump, targeted surveillance sites, military logistics infrastructure, underground weapons storage facilities and maritime capabilities. The command said fighter aircraft, drones, warships and other military assets participated in the strikes, describing the campaign as part of efforts to further degrade Iran's military capabilities.
CENTCOM did not immediately provide a comprehensive assessment of damage or casualties resulting from the latest operation.
Iranian state media reported explosions in several areas, while Iranian authorities accused Washington of expanding attacks beyond military facilities. Some Iranian officials also reported casualties in southern Hormozgan province, although Reuters could not independently verify those claims.
The latest strikes came hours before Iran launched missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. allies and military facilities in the Gulf, according to Iran's Revolutionary Guards and regional authorities. Iran claimed responsibility for attacks on sites in Kuwait and Bahrain, while officials in those countries reported intercepting aerial threats. Reuters could not independently verify the full extent of the reported attacks or damage.
The exchange of strikes has intensified concerns over regional security and the safety of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy transit routes. Maritime disruptions have contributed to higher oil prices and prompted governments to monitor developments closely.
The United Nations has urged all parties to avoid further escalation and to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, while several governments have renewed calls for diplomacy.
President Trump has maintained that the military campaign is intended to weaken Iran's ability to threaten regional security and international shipping. Iranian officials have condemned the strikes and warned that continued U.S. military action would draw further retaliation.
As of late Friday, neither Washington nor Tehran had announced any agreement to halt military operations, and officials on both sides indicated they remained prepared for additional action if the confrontation continued.
