US launches fresh airstrikes on Iran; Mashhad rail link disrupted, Bandar Abbas hit, 14 dead

The United States has launched a fresh round of airstrikes on Iran, escalating tensions in the Middle East for the second day in a row. According to Iranian officials, at least 14 people were killed and 78 others were injured in the attacks. The strikes reportedly targeted transport routes and military-related sites in different parts of the country, including Bandar Abbas and the railway line leading to Mashhad.

The latest attacks come at a time when the region is already witnessing rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. The fresh strikes have also raised concerns about the safety of global shipping routes and the possibility of a wider conflict.

US airstrikes hit Mashhad rail link, train services suspended

One of the main targets of the airstrikes was the railway route connecting Tehran and Mashhad. Iranian media reported that several railway bridges were damaged, forcing authorities to suspend train services on the route.

The disruption happened just before thousands of people gathered in Mashhad for the funeral of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, making the timing of the attack particularly significant.

Bandar Abbas among cities hit in latest strikes

Explosions were also reported in Bandar Abbas, Iran’s biggest port on the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials said parts of the city’s infrastructure were damaged in the strikes.

Blasts were also heard in other southern areas, including parts of Bushehr province. However, Iranian authorities said the country’s nuclear facilities were not directly targeted during the operation.

Why did the US launch the attacks?

The US military said the airstrikes were aimed at military sites linked to attacks on commercial ships and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. According to Washington, the operation was intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten one of the world’s most important shipping routes, through which a large share of global oil supplies passes.

Iran responds with missile and drone attacks

Iran strongly condemned the US strikes, calling them a violation of diplomatic efforts. In response, Tehran launched missiles and drones toward US military bases in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Jordan, according to international reports.

Several countries said their air defence systems intercepted incoming missiles and drones. Regional governments have urged both sides to avoid further military action to prevent the conflict from spreading.

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