US launches new wave of strikes against Iran, aimed at ‘degrading’ military

The United States announced a new round of early-morning strikes on Iran on July 12, 2026, aimed at degrading Iran's attack capabilities in the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command said the strikes, authorized by President Trump, were intended to hold Iranian forces accountable for attacks on civilian vessels. Explosions were reported near the strait, including in Sirik, Qeshm Island, Jask, and west of Bandar Abbas, with no civilian casualties reported. The strikes are part of an escalation since July 7, with three rounds of attacks last week, including 140 Iranian military targets on Saturday night. Iran has retaliated against US installations in Jordan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Oman.