The US has carried out another round of strikes on Iranian military targets, saying the operation was aimed at reducing threats to commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz…reports Asian Lite News desk
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has carried out another round of strikes on Iranian military targets, saying the operation was aimed at degrading Tehran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement posted on X, CENTCOM said US forces struck Iranian military command centres, maritime capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and air defence systems during the operation, which concluded at 9 p.m. ET on July 20.
“U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) completed another round of strikes against Iran at 9 p.m. ET, July 20. US forces struck Iranian military command centres, maritime capabilities, missile and drone launch sites, and air defence systems to degrade Iran’s ability to continue attacking commercial vessels flowing through the Strait of Hormuz,” CENTCOM said.
The command said commercial traffic through the strategic waterway continues despite ongoing tensions.
“Since early May, CENTCOM forces have helped facilitate the transit of approximately 900 commercial vessels and 450 million barrels of crude oil,” it said.
CENTCOM added that US forces remain prepared to conduct further military action if necessary, accusing Iran of carrying out attacks against civilian vessels using the international shipping route.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, with a significant share of global crude oil exports passing through the narrow waterway. Any disruption to shipping in the region has the potential to affect international energy markets and global trade.
The latest strikes come amid growing concerns over the possibility of wider regional escalation as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.
Separately, the US Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs issued a worldwide caution for American citizens, citing the evolving security situation.
In a post on X, the department said: “Worldwide Caution: Due to heightened tensions in the Middle East, the security environment remains complex with the potential for unforeseen escalation.”
It advised Americans in the region to remain alert and prepare for possible disruptions to travel.
“Americans currently in the Middle East should exercise caution and heightened vigilance and should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions. Please monitor embassy and consular security alerts, local authorities, and the news for breaking developments,” the department said.
The advisory also warned that US diplomatic facilities and American interests could face threats beyond the Middle East.
“U.S. diplomatic facilities, including outside the Middle East, have been targeted. Iran and groups supportive of Iran may target other U.S. interests overseas or at locations associated with the United States and Americans throughout the world,” the department said.
The State Department urged US citizens to remain informed through official security alerts and to review travel advisories and destination-specific guidance before making travel plans as the regional security situation remains uncertain.
