US President Donald Trump recently declared the ceasefire agreement with Iran over during the NATO summit. He said that he is no longer sure about any deal with Iran and that America should finish the job.
Trump described Iranian leaders as “scum” and sick people and warned that there would be a “very strong” response if the attacks were repeated. He also said that “anything will happen very fast” and raised the possibility of capturing Kharg Island.
With this statement, America launched fresh air strikes on Iran. According to reports, in the last two days, the US military (CENTCOM) attacked more than 170 military bases and targets of Iran. These included air defense systems, missile-drone storage, naval bases, coastal surveillance and logistics infrastructure in coastal areas near the Strait of Hormuz. More than 90 targets were reported to have been attacked in one night alone.
According to Iranian media, fire and smoke were seen in some ports and areas from these attacks. There were reports of smoke rising in areas like Bushehr and Kuhstak. Iran’s Health Ministry confirmed 14 deaths and 78 injuries. Some bridges and railway lines were also damaged, affecting transportation.
The US claimed the attacks were meant to weaken Iranian capabilities threatening freedom of navigation in Hormuz. Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched missile and drone attacks on US bases or related targets in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar. Some attacks were intercepted, but tensions increased in the area.
Tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz was affected after these attacks. Iran exported huge amounts of crude oil overnight to avoid a possible US naval blockade. Oil prices have increased after this attack. Brent crude rose by more than 1%. There is a possibility of impact on the global economy.
Trump has said that this will not last long and will end very quickly, but he also reiterated the need to get the job done. It is believed that Trump’s strategy may be to create pressure so that Iran can be brought to the negotiating table. There are fears the US could launch further attacks, especially if Iran continues attacking ships in Hormuz.
Iran has warned of giving a befitting reply to America’s attack. Retaliatory action is possible from regional bases or through proxies. Apart from this, oil prices may increase further, leading to the risk of inflation and global recession.