Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched retaliatory strikes against US military facilities across the Gulf region Monday, targeting sites in Bahrain, Oman, Jordan, and Kuwait. The attacks follow an escalation of US airstrikes on Iranian positions, dimming prospects for peace.
Where Did Iran Strike?
- Oman: The IRGC claimed it destroyed the FPS long-range aerial radar and a vessel detection radar in Oman.
- Bahrain: Missile and drone attacks targeted US installations in Juffair, including Sheikh Isa Air Base. Bahrain’s interior ministry confirmed sirens and urged residents to take shelter.
- Jordan: The Jordanian military intercepted four missiles entering its airspace from Iran. The IRGC said it hit Prince Hassan Air Base, setting fire to fuel depots and ammunition stores.
- Kuwait: Iran claimed to have destroyed two HIMARS missile launchers and warehouses at a US base. Kuwait’s army reported engaging “hostile aerial targets.”
Where Was Iran Hit?
US Central Command announced strikes on “dozens of targets” in Iran, including air-defense systems, coastal radar, missile and drone capabilities, and small boats. Precision munitions were used to degrade Iran’s ability to attack shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran reported attacks on at least eight locations in Khuzestan province, killing one person and injuring four at a water-pumping station in Mahshahr. Iran also claimed to have shot down a US LUCAS drone near Bandar Abbas.
Statements from Both Sides
Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the US strikes. President Donald Trump, in a TV appearance, called Iranians “evil and sick people,” claiming they reneged on a deal and attacked a ship shortly after negotiations.
How Did the Conflict Reignite?
The hostilities resumed July 6 when the IRGC struck three commercial vessels off Oman, accusing them of transiting the Strait of Hormuz without permission. The US responded with airstrikes, triggering tit-for-tat attacks. Trump declared a June memorandum of understanding over the strait void on Wednesday, and the IRGC closed the waterway again on Saturday.
Impact on the Strait of Hormuz
Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has dropped to its lowest in five weeks. On Sunday, only six ships passed through, including tankers carrying Iranian and Kuwaiti oil. Three empty tankers entered the Gulf to load oil.