U.S. Strikes Iranian Targets in Response to Aggression as Iran Warns of Crushing Retaliation and UN Warns of Full War Risk
American forces hit multiple Iranian sites on Wednesday following an Army helicopter incident near the Strait of Hormuz. The operation came hours after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said strikes would be strong and clear.
yahoo.comU.S. Central Command struck multiple targets inside Iran on Wednesday in response to what it described as continued Iranian aggression. S. attack the previous day after an Army helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters the military would strike Iran hard Wednesday night. He said the operation was intended to set terms for a deal the president expects rather than restart broader fighting. "Those strikes that will happen tonight will be strong; they will be clear," Hegseth said.
U.S. aircraft fired precision munitions into the engine room of the Palau-flagged M/T Settebello, according to Central Command. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced sanctions on nine people and firms, including Hong Kong-based Mustad, accused of supporting Iran’s weapons procurement.
President Trump signed a $70 billion immigration enforcement bill into law on Wednesday. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and $26 billion to the Border Patrol, with an additional $5 billion for unforeseen costs.
The legislation cleared the House 214-212 the day before over Democratic objections. S. citizens were killed during enforcement operations in Minneapolis in January.
U.S. Embassy in Baghdad advised American citizens in Iraq to maintain heightened readiness amid possible travel disruptions and airspace closures. Washington had already warned citizens against travel to Iraq.
Iran’s UN envoy Amir Saeid Iravani told the Security Council that sustainable deals cannot be reached through intimidation or force. He said Iran has never negotiated under threats and will not submit to pressure. "No sustainable deal can be reached through terrorists, intimidation, or the use of force," Iravani said.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned the Security Council that escalating attacks and rhetoric risk full war in the Gulf region. He called for a complete ceasefire, restored navigational rights, and negotiations ensuring Iran’s nuclear program remains peaceful.
