US launches major strikes on Iran as regional tensions escalate
11:17, 30/07/2026, ThursdayU: Update: 11:17, 30/07/2026, Thursday
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The United States says it has carried out a large-scale military operation targeting dozens of Iranian Revolutionary Guard facilities after alleged missile attacks on American forces in the Middle East. The strikes come as Iran reports explosions in several southern regions, further heightening fears of a broader regional confrontation.
The United States has launched a new wave of military strikes against Iran, with US Central Command (CENTCOM) saying the operation targeted key Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) military sites. According to the US military, the action was conducted after what it described as attempted Iranian missile attacks against American forces stationed across the Middle East.
CENTCOM details military operation
In a statement released late Wednesday, CENTCOM said the strikes were completed at 10 p.m. Eastern Time on July 29. The command stated that American forces hit dozens of IRGC-linked facilities, including command centers, missile and drone infrastructure, coastal defense positions, surveillance systems and maritime assets.
US officials said the operation followed an incident on July 28, when Iran allegedly launched multiple ballistic missiles toward US military positions in the region. CENTCOM claimed all incoming missiles were intercepted before reaching their intended targets.
US maintains regional military readiness
The US military also emphasized that more than 50,000 American service members remain deployed across the Middle East. According to CENTCOM, US forces continue to operate at a high level of readiness, describing them as "highly vigilant, focused, lethal, and ready" amid the escalating security situation.
Iran reports explosions in south
Iranian media reported that the latest US strikes also affected areas in southern Iran. Reports said a residential district on Qeshm Island was hit, while Tasnim News Agency said powerful explosions were heard in Ahvaz, the capital of Khuzestan Province. Local reports added that parts of the city experienced electricity outages following the blasts.
Regional tensions continue to rise
The military escalation has extended beyond Iran and the United States. Jordan announced on Wednesday that its air defenses intercepted five Iranian missiles, while the IRGC said it had targeted a US air base located in the kingdom. The latest exchange underscores growing instability across the Middle East and raises concerns over the risk of a wider regional conflict.