U.S. Central Command Strikes Dozens of Iranian Military Targets

U.S. Central Command carried out strikes on dozens of Iranian military targets early Monday morning. The targets included air-defense systems, coastal radar installations, missile and drone facilities, and small boats.

The command said the strikes degrade Iran’s ability to attack international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. It added that U.S. forces used fighter aircraft, naval vessels, one-way attack aerial drones, and one-way attack sea drones.

Explosions were reported in the port city of Bandar Abbas and on Qeshm Island, according to reports from the region. Bandar Abbas lies on the coast of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global trade. Iran claimed it shot down a hostile Lucas-type American drone over Bandar Abbas, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported.

Tehran also said it targeted U.S. military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait and destroyed radar systems in Oman. U.S. Central Command stated that Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz and that American forces remain prepared to ensure freedom of navigation.

Tehran has vowed it has closed the strait. Brent crude oil prices rose by 3 percent on Monday. President Trump declared the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran dead.