JERUSALEM (VINnews) — The U.S. military carried out strikes overnight (Wednesday–Thursday) against targets in Iraq and Iran. Explosions were reported at several locations in southern Iran near the Strait of Hormuz. Among the reported targets were a petrochemical facility in Asaluyeh and additional sites near Bandar Abbas, one of the most strategically important areas along Iran’s coastline.

At the same time, explosions were reported in other parts of southern Iran, including Minab and Sirik in Hormozgan Province. Some reports said explosions were also heard on Qeshm Island, while air defense systems were reportedly activated in western Tehran. Additional explosions were reported on Khargan Island in southern Iran.

In northern Iraq, explosions were reported in Erbil in the Kurdish region, suggesting a possible regional expansion of the conflict. Iran’s Mehr News Agency reported exchanges of fire at sea between U.S. and Iranian forces. Iranian media claimed that American warships were targeted with missiles and drones.

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American forces had begun additional self-defense operations against eight targets in Iran at approximately 5:15 p.m. Eastern Time. According to the military statement, the actions were carried out under orders from the Commander-in-Chief and were a response to Iran’s “unwarranted and continued aggression.”

President Donald Trump told Fox News that U.S. fighter jets had operated in Iranian airspace. He also said he had spoken directly with Iranian officials amid the latest developments. According to Trump, Iranian officials asked him to stop the attacks. He added that the strikes would end soon, though he suggested the U.S. might strike again if necessary. Trump emphasized that Israel was not involved in the latest attacks and said the operation was not directly connected to Israel.

Tensions between the United States and Iran continued to escalate for a second consecutive night. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth had earlier warned that the United States would strike key facilities in Iran and described the attacks as “strong, sharp, and clear.” He said the operation was intended to advance U.S. military interests and strengthen Washington’s diplomatic position.

According to Reuters, Iran’s military leadership warned that the armed forces would deliver a “crushing and decisive response” to any American aggression. Iranian officials stated that the country was on full alert and prepared for any scenario, and warned that any U.S. attack would result in further strikes against American interests in the region.

Against the backdrop of the escalating tensions, the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad issued a security warning to American citizens in Iraq, urging heightened vigilance and caution.

Iran’s Mehr News Agency also reported that air-defense systems were activated in Fars Province in southern Iran, reflecting increased military readiness amid fears of further attacks.

The latest developments indicate that the region is experiencing one of its most tense periods in recent months, with growing concern about a direct confrontation between Washington and Tehran.

At the same time, the New York Times reported that the chances of achieving a diplomatic breakthrough have diminished after the Qatari mediation delegation left Tehran on Wednesday evening without any progress being made in the negotiations.