US-Iran Conflict Deepens
New Delhi: The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Saturday after the US carried out a seventh consecutive night of airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest operation focused on surveillance facilities, underground weapons storage sites, logistics infrastructure and maritime capabilities.
The US also said its naval forces continued enforcing a maritime blockade, redirecting and inspecting vessels operating near the Strait of Hormuz.
Hours after the latest strikes, Iran announced fresh military operations targeting Gulf countries that host American military installations. Iranian authorities also claimed action against vessels operating near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest energy shipping routes.
Iranian media reported damage to power and desalination facilities in the southern city of Jask, while authorities said attacks had disrupted drinking water supplies in several nearby villages. Independent verification of these claims was not immediately available.
The exchange of attacks has increased concerns over energy security in the Gulf. Both sides accused each other of disrupting commercial shipping, with conflicting claims over incidents involving oil tankers and cargo vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.
Reports of attacks on maritime traffic and strategic infrastructure have heightened fears of disruptions to global oil supplies and international trade through key sea routes.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern over the growing conflict, particularly reports of attacks affecting civilian infrastructure across the region.
As hostilities continue, Gulf nations have strengthened security measures around key installations while emergency agencies remain on alert. Despite repeated international calls for restraint and dialogue, there are no immediate signs of de-escalation, raising fears that the conflict could expand further across the Middle East.
