US says it strikes over 80 Iranian military targets after Hormuz tanker attack

The United States launched a large-scale retaliatory air campaign against Iran overnight, striking more than 80 military targets following an attack on a commercial oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz, according to the United States Central Command.

CENTCOM said the operation targeted Iran's air defence systems, missile sites, command-and-control facilities, coastal radar installations and naval assets of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including more than 60 fast attack boats.

The US military said the strikes were aimed at protecting freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz after what it described as Iranian attacks on international commercial shipping, warning it remains ready to respond to any further escalation.

Iranian state media reported explosions in several southern regions early Wednesday but provided no immediate details on casualties or damage.

The escalation follows an attack on the Qatari-owned oil tanker Al Rekhayat near the Strait of Hormuz. Qatar has lodged a formal protest with Tehran, while Iran has denied responsibility, insisting it remains committed to maritime security in the strategic waterway.

Source: Al Jazeera