The United States launched a new wave of airstrikes across Iran on Wednesday night, marking a major escalation in the months-long conflict and heightening concerns that more Middle Eastern countries could be drawn into the fighting.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation began at 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, targeting multiple sites across Iran. According to the military, the strikes were carried out in response to an attempted Iranian attack on US forces in the region a day earlier.
Local sources reported hearing multiple explosions in the Iranian cities and areas of Qeshm, Kish, Bandar Abbas, Abadan and Bushehr during the operation.
The escalation came after reports of a drone strike on a US-owned gas storage tanker at Egypt’s Mediterranean port of Damietta, according to British maritime security firm Ambrey. At the same time, US and Saudi forces reportedly struck Iran-backed groups in eastern Iraq, while Iran launched missiles at US troops stationed in Jordan.
Egypt’s Petroleum Ministry confirmed a fire at the Damietta port but did not mention a drone attack. Responsibility for the incident has not been officially established.
US President Donald Trump had earlier vowed a strong response to Iran, telling reporters at the White House, “Now it’s our turn.” While warning of severe military action, he also reiterated that Washington remained open to pursuing a diplomatic peace agreement.
Iran, meanwhile, confirmed launching attacks on US military positions in Jordan and on vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran also rejected Oman’s proposal for joint management of the strategically vital waterway, insisting it would maintain control over the area.
Analysts warn that the latest exchanges, coupled with attacks in Iraq and Egypt, could expand the conflict across the region. The confrontation began earlier this year after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, and fighting resumed around the Strait of Hormuz following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire in June
