Breaking news live updates: The United States military carried out a 12th consecutive night of airstrikes on Iran on Wednesday, as tensions between the two countries continued to escalate. The latest round of attacks came amid growing concerns over both sides increasingly targeting civilian infrastructure, raising fears of a wider regional conflict.
According to the US Central Command, the strikes were intended to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and civilian vessels travelling through regional waters. Washington has repeatedly said it is working to restore safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy routes.
Donald Trump warns of strikes on Iranian infrastructure
US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to Iran, saying Washington would respond forcefully to any attack on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
“From this point forward, any time the Islamic Republic of Iran shoots at a ship in the Strait of Hormuz, whether it be by Missile, Rocket, Drone, or any other device or weapon, the United States will bomb and destroy ONE BRIDGE OR POWER PLANT,” Trump wrote on social media.
Diplomacy remains stalled as tensions deepen
The latest military action comes despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, which have shown little visible progress. The dispute over the Strait of Hormuz remains unresolved, with Iranian attacks continuing to disrupt one of the world’s busiest oil and gas shipping lanes.
Analysts warn that the prolonged conflict could further affect the global economy by disrupting energy supplies and pushing fuel prices higher, particularly as the United States heads towards its midterm elections later this year.
Iran vows a strong response
Iran also hardened its position on Wednesday. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would follow an “eye for an eye” approach in responding to attacks.
“Any aggression against Iran, including our infrastructure, will compel a powerful and decisive response,” he posted Wednesday on X.
Fresh missile attacks and regional alerts
Before the latest US strikes, American forces had already launched another wave of attacks overnight into Wednesday. Iranian air defence systems were activated over Tehran during the operation.
Iran also launched a missile attack targeting a Jordanian city near Israel’s border. Security alerts were issued in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia as regional tensions continued to rise.
Civilian infrastructure increasingly under threat
With negotiations making little progress, both countries have increasingly targeted infrastructure linked to civilian life.
Iran has responded to US military operations by attacking energy facilities and desalination plants that provide drinking water to neighbouring Gulf countries. Meanwhile, the United States has continued its campaign against Iranian targets as it seeks to pressure Tehran over maritime security.
International law generally bans attacks on civilian infrastructure unless those facilities are being used for military purposes. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticised such strikes earlier this week, calling them “unacceptable.”
Global concern grows
The continuing conflict has raised international concern over regional stability, global energy supplies and the safety of commercial shipping in the Gulf. With both sides maintaining hardline positions and diplomacy at a standstill, the risk of further escalation remains high.
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First published on: Jul 23, 2026 07:05 AM IST
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