US launches ‘heavy wave’ of new strikes on Iran

Key Points:

• The US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) launched a “heavy wave” of strikes against Iran targeting Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) facilities, in response to Iranian missile attacks on US forces in Jordan the previous day.
• Iranian media reported at least three civilian deaths, including a family on Qeshm island, and power outages in Ahvaz following US strikes concentrated in southern provinces along the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz.
• Iran retaliated by launching missiles at a US airbase and command center in Jordan, all of which were intercepted by Jordanian air defenses with no reported casualties.
• Analysts suggest the US may continue targeting Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz or escalate strikes on critical infrastructure, while new US sanctions target Iranian firms linked to IRGC-backed schemes affecting maritime insurance.
• Despite the escalation, some experts view the US strikes as calibrated and possibly aimed at maintaining diplomatic options, with President Trump warning of potentially harsher actions against Iran.