US-Iran Conflict Escalates as Hormuz, Military Bases and Civilians Face New Strikes

US Central Command said American forces struck Iranian air defence, radar, communications and mine-laying capabilities following alleged attacks by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on shipping and US personnel.

The escalation has also intensified tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime route. US President Donald Trump said Washington now has “almost total control” of the strait as the confrontation between the two countries deepens.

Trump also dismissed the prospect of an immediate return to negotiations, saying he “couldn’t care less” whether Tehran returned to talks. He warned that Iran would be hit at a “much harder and higher level”, signalling a further escalation in the American campaign.

Iran has responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Gulf states and Jordan, expanding the latest round of fighting beyond Iranian territory.

Iranian state media reported that the IRGC targeted Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan. Jordan said it intercepted 10 Iranian missiles, while three missiles landed in unpopulated areas.

Inside Iran, the IRGC reported that four soldiers were killed in a US attack in Kermanshah province. Tehran is preparing for further retaliation as the latest exchange of strikes raises fears of another cycle of regional escalation.

Civilian casualties have also been reported. Iranian officials said a US strike hit a home hosting a wedding in southern Sirik, killing at least five people, including a child, and injuring dozens. The US military said it does not target civilians and noted that the reports originated from Iranian state media.

Tehran has vowed a “crushing and devastating” response to the renewed American campaign, further raising the prospect of sustained hostilities across the region.

Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei issued his first message since the fighting resumed, saying Iran’s armed forces have “unforgettable lessons” in store for the United States.

At the same time, a diplomatic opening remains uncertain. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said Tehran is prepared to return to the interim ceasefire if Washington does the same. The latest American strikes and Iranian retaliatory attacks, however, have placed that ceasefire offer under increasing pressure, leaving the diplomatic window hanging in the balance.