The United States has carried out a second consecutive day of airstrikes on targets in Iran, saying the operation was launched in response to what it described as Iran’s continued attacks on commercial shipping. The latest strikes, carried out on Saturday, have raised fresh concerns over the durability of the ceasefire agreement reached between Washington and Tehran on June 17.
In a statement, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation was conducted under the direction of President Donald Trump. According to CENTCOM, the strikes were intended to counter actions that threatened the security of international commercial maritime traffic.
The U.S. military said the operation targeted Iranian military surveillance infrastructure, communications systems, air defense installations, drone storage facilities, and sites associated with maritime mine-laying capabilities. It did not immediately provide details on the extent of the damage or any casualties.
Meanwhile, Iranian state media reported powerful explosions near the Tahroui area close to Sirik Port in southern Iran. The same region was reportedly targeted by U.S. forces on Friday. Reports also indicated strikes on Qeshm Island, a strategically important location in the Persian Gulf.
Hours after the latest operation, President Trump issued a fresh warning to Iran in a post on social media. He said the United States could take even stronger military action if Tehran failed to act in line with Washington’s expectations.
Trump accused Iran of repeatedly violating the terms of the ceasefire agreement, although Tehran has long made similar accusations against the United States.
“The question is whether they will learn their lesson—I have serious doubts,” Trump said. He added that a point could come when the United States would no longer be able to exercise restraint and would be compelled to complete the military campaign it has begun. He warned that, under such circumstances, “the very existence of the Islamic Republic of Iran could be at risk.”
Analysts say the latest exchange of military strikes and accusations could further destabilize the security situation in the Middle East, while efforts to preserve the fragile ceasefire face mounting challenges.
Sources: U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM); Iranian State Media.