Infrastructure Attacks Deepen U.S.-Iran Escalation
The conflict between the United States and Iran widened on Friday as both countries targeted infrastructure, increasing concerns about civilian harm, regional stability and global energy supplies.
U.S. forces struck at least five bridges in southern Iran, according to Iranian state media, along with a train station and an airport. Seven people were reportedly killed in attacks near Bandar Khamir. U.S. Central Command described its targets as military logistics infrastructure and said the strikes marked a seventh consecutive night of operations.
Iran responded with attacks across Gulf states hosting U.S. forces. Kuwaiti authorities said an Iranian strike damaged a power generation and water desalination station, causing a fire and disrupting several electricity units. Kuwait also reported missile and drone attacks against military facilities, with troops wounded but no deaths announced.
Maritime tensions also intensified. U.S. Marines boarded a tanker near the Strait of Hormuz, while armed men seized another vessel off Yemen. Iran said it targeted a Thai-flagged ship attempting to cross the strait and launched a cruise missile toward a U.S. vessel in the northern Indian Ocean. These incidents renewed concerns about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, two major routes for global energy trade.
The escalation follows the collapse of an interim ceasefire after renewed attacks began on July 7. Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington has reinstated a blockade of Iranian ports.
Iranian officials warned that continued U.S. strikes could trigger full-scale offensive operations. President Donald Trump has threatened broader attacks and has not ruled out ground operations. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern about attacks on civilian infrastructure. Brent crude oil prices rose three per cent amid fears that further escalation could restrict Gulf energy exports and place substantial additional pressure on governments throughout the region.