US Unleashes 'Powerful Strikes' on Iran, Peace Deal Crumbles Amid Gulf Escalation
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The United States has launched a wave of 'powerful strikes' against Iran, with President Donald Trump declaring the fragile interim peace agreement 'over' following a series of Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed hitting over 80 targets across Iran, including air defense systems and naval assets, in retaliation for the targeting of tankers from Qatar and Saudi Arabia. This dramatic escalation shatters the June 17 interim understanding, which aimed to end months of conflict and reopen vital maritime routes. In response to the US strikes, Iran Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) retaliated by reportedly targeting 85 US military facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait, triggering missile alerts and air defense activations. Washington further ratcheted up pressure by revoking a key waiver that had allowed Iran to sell its crude oil, sending global oil prices surging by over 3% as energy security concerns resurface. The immediate future points to heightened military tensions and stalled diplomacy. With both sides accusing each other of violating the agreement and Iran still navigating the political uncertainties after the death of its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the prospect of a lasting resolution appears distant. Global energy markets will remain on edge, bracing for potential prolonged disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and further military exchanges.