US-Iran War Update: Middle East Conflict Escalates as Washington Continues Strikes, Tehran Threatens Retaliation

The United States has launched a 12th consecutive night of strikes on Iran, prompting Tehran to warn of an “eye for an eye” response as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz intensify.

Post Published By: Sreeja Chowdhury

Updated : 23 July 2026, 8:03 AM IST

US Launches 12th Consecutive Night of Strikes on Iran; Tehran Warns of ‘Eye for an Eye’ Response

Washington: The United States carried out a 12th consecutive night of military strikes against Iran early Thursday, further escalating a conflict that has disrupted shipping and raised fears of a wider regional confrontation.

US Targets Iranian Military Capabilities

US Central Command said the latest operation targeted Iranian military facilities and was intended to weaken Tehran’s ability to threaten civilian sailors and commercial vessels passing through regional waters.

Also Read: US-Iran War Update: US Launches Fresh Strikes, Iran Claims Attack on Base in Bahrain

The strikes came after US President Donald Trump warned that Washington would target an Iranian bridge or power plant every time Iran attacked a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump said the warning applied to attacks involving missiles, drones, rockets or other weapons. His remarks marked a significant escalation, as they raised the possibility of strikes on infrastructure beyond strictly military targets.

Iran Warns of ‘Eye for an Eye’ Response

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran’s defence policy was based on an “eye for an eye” principle. He warned that any attack on Iranian territory or infrastructure would trigger a powerful and decisive response.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also said regional infrastructure would not remain secure if Iran’s own security and oil exports were threatened.

Oil Markets and Shipping Under Pressure

The confrontation has severely affected shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes. Brent crude climbed above $93 a barrel amid concerns over possible supply disruptions.

Also Read: US Launches 11th Consecutive Night of Strikes on Iran as Hormuz Crisis Deepens

Fresh threats from Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement against Saudi-linked shipping in the Red Sea have added pressure on another crucial maritime corridor.

Commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed, while rising fuel prices and longer shipping routes are increasing costs across global markets.