US forces launched a new wave of strikes on Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps targets in Iran, and Tehran answered by targeting American bases and allies across the Persian Gulf region. Central Command said the targets included air defense sites, radar systems, maritime assets and facilities, mine laying capabilities and communications sites, The Hill reported.
How heavy was the fighting? It was the largest exchange of fire between the two countries since July, PBS NewsHour reported, and Iran's health minister said the US attacks killed at least 18 people and injured more than 100. Iranian drones and missiles aimed at US bases in the region were intercepted over Kuwait and Jordan. Iranian officials said one strike hit a home in a town overlooking the Strait of Hormuz where a wedding had been celebrated earlier that night, killing at least four people, including two children. A Central Command spokesperson said the military was looking into the reports, which originated from Iranian state media, and that "the U.S. military never targets civilians, unlike the IRGC."
What else did US forces hit? US forces also struck two Iranian government tankers and nearly 100 military targets in the Strait of Hormuz under a new tanker-for-tanker policy, PBS NewsHour reported, citing Axios. It was the first time the US had struck Iranian tankers in retaliation for Iranian attacks on ships in the strait.
What did the president say? 
Donald Trump said the renewed campaign would not last long but threatened to hit Tehran "very hard" if the conflict over the Strait of Hormuz remains unresolved, PBS NewsHour reported. In the Oval Office, he said the strait was under US control and warned the strikes were the first of many. Trump also warned that the "biggest" attack was yet to come, Sky News reported. On Truth Social on Tuesday night, he said he is "not trying to force Iran to the negotiating table," The Hill reported, and he also said he "couldn't care less" whether Iran signs an agreement with the US.
Is the economic pressure widening? Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said airlines, the maritime industry and digital assets could become US targets, CNA reported. Speaking on Fox & Friends a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly backed Iran, Bessent warned everyone against supporting the Iranian government. He said a day earlier that aircraft leasing companies could also be targeted and that more banks could face sanctions this week.
Figures referenced: Donald Trump. — JudgeMarket.
