The United States has conducted expanded military strikes on Iran this week, focusing on targets linked to threats against shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) carried out multiple waves of strikes, targeting Iranian command centers, air defense systems, missile and drone capabilities, coastal surveillance facilities, sites near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island (The Times of Israel), along with two bridges in southern Iran and a railway junction in Bandar Abbas (Iran International Live). Strikes also reached areas around Tehran and northern provinces such as Semnan for the first time in this phase. The U.S. military disabled a tanker, the Belma, heading toward Kharg Island after it ignored warnings (The Times of Israel).
Iranian authorities reported more than 35 people killed and over 300 wounded in recent strikes, with one overnight operation causing over 260 injuries. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on targets in Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, where air defenses intercepted many of the incoming threats. Limited details on damage were available (The Times of Israel).
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Iran “better behave” and indicated an openness to further strikes, including on bridges and power infrastructure, unless negotiations resume. He also confirmed the release of U.S. citizen Dena Karari from Iran as a “gesture of goodwill” (The Times of Israel).
Trump’s comments came as Iran continues to strike a defiant tone, hanging a massive poster in Tehran depicting Trump in a coffin, following calls to assassinate Trump during the recent funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (The Times of Israel).
Iranian military spokesman Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia described the Strait of Hormuz as an “invincible red line” and warned against U.S. interference (The Times of Israel). Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, acting as Iran’s top negotiator, said the country was in an “existential war with America.” The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has threatened to block regional energy exports in response to the U.S. blockade (The Times of Israel).
Sources indicate Iran has directed Yemen’s Houthis to prepare to disrupt shipping through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait if the U.S. targets Iranian power networks. The Houthis have positioned assets in the area and are awaiting orders from Iran. This development could affect alternative energy export routes (The Jerusalem Post).
U.S. officials described the current strikes as operations that degrade Iranian defenses and prepare for potential additional actions if needed. The Strait of Hormuz was a key transit point for about one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments before the conflict. Oil prices have risen above $85 per barrel amid the renewed conflict.
Blessors of Israel continues to closely monitor this developing story. Please pray for our leaders, troops, Israel and her people, along with the Iranian people.
Dr. Matthew Dodd, Executive Director | July 16, 2026
