Airstrikes on a major suspension bridge and a historic medical research facility in Iran are being seen as a potential turning point in U.S. military strategy, with analysts suggesting a shift toward targeting broader infrastructure.
Iran has blamed both the United States and Israel for the attacks, which struck near Karaj city and in the capital, Tehran. The incidents occurred just hours after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Iranian civilian infrastructure could become targets if Tehran refused to enter negotiations.
Although no party has formally claimed responsibility, U.S. officials confirmed to regional media outlet Al-Monitor that American forces carried out the strike on the bridge, citing its alleged use as a logistics route for Iran’s ballistic missile and drone operations.
In a social media post, Trump appeared to praise the destruction, stating that one of Iran’s largest bridges had collapsed and warning that “more is coming.” He urged Iranian leaders to reach a deal quickly, cautioning that further delays could lead to devastating consequences.
However, a U.S. official denied targeting the Pasteur Institute in Tehran, suggesting instead that it may have been struck by Israeli forces. Iran strongly condemned the attack on the 105-year-old research institute, calling it a “barbaric assault on fundamental humanitarian values.”
Speaking at the Pentagon, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said military operations would intensify if Iran failed to comply with U.S. demands. Trump has also threatened coordinated strikes on Iran’s power infrastructure and hinted at potential attacks on its oil sector.
Since the conflict began on February 28, U.S. forces have reportedly struck more than 12,500 targets across Iran, severely weakening its conventional military capabilities. Despite this,
Tehran continues to rely on asymmetric tactics, including drones and fast attack vessels.
According to the International Committee of the Red Cross, more than 1,900 people have been killed and over 21,000 injured in the past month. Aid agencies warn that prolonged conflict could lead to critical shortages of medical supplies.
Meanwhile, senior U.S. military officials indicated that strikes are now extending to research facilities suspected of supporting Iran’s nuclear program, signaling a broader and more aggressive campaign.
As tensions escalate, the latest attacks underscore growing fears of a prolonged and increasingly destructive conflict in the region.
