US Strikes 4 Iran Provinces: Trump Says Iran Beaten Badly, Houthis Attack Saudi Tankers

The United States military has intensified its military campaign against Iran, conducting airstrikes for the 12th consecutive night. According to reports from the American Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest wave of attacks targeted multiple locations across four key Iranian provinces: Khuzestan, Bushehr, Hormozgan, and Ilam. Iranian officials have confirmed that several military bases and strategic sites were hit during these missile and aerial operations. The persistent nature of these strikes indicates a significant escalation in the regional conflict, with the US focusing on degrading Iran's military infrastructure.

CENTCOM Details Strategic Targets and Maritime Blockade

US Central Command (CENTCOM) issued a statement confirming the completion of the 12th night of airstrikes. The military operations were specifically designed to neutralize Iran's offensive capabilities. The targets included missile and drone storage facilities, maritime military assets, coastal surveillance centers, and sophisticated air defense systems. CENTCOM highlighted that dozens of Iranian military sites have been neutralized since the beginning of this month. On top of that, the US military claimed to have implemented a maritime blockade against Iran. As part of this blockade, the routes of 9 commercial vessels were forcibly changed, and at least one ship was prevented from entering or leaving an Iranian port, further tightening the economic and military pressure on the nation.

Trump Comments on Iran's Position and Potential Deal

President Donald Trump has spoken out regarding the ongoing military action, asserting that the sustained pressure is having a profound impact on the Iranian leadership. Trump stated that Iran is being beaten badly and, as a result, is seeking a way to reach an agreement. However, the President expressed skepticism about the immediate possibility of a deal, while trump was quoted saying, "They're being beaten badly and they want to make a deal. " This suggests that while the military pressure is high, diplomatic breakthroughs remain elusive due to shifting negotiations.

Houthi Rebels Target Saudi Oil Tankers in Red Sea

In a separate but related escalation, Houthi rebels from Yemen have launched attacks on global energy infrastructure, while the rebels used missiles and drones to target two Saudi Arabian oil tankers, identified as the Anselia and the Laila, while they were navigating the Red Sea. Saudi authorities have officially confirmed the attacks on both vessels. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) also reported an incident involving a ship near the Saudi coast, while these actions by the Houthi rebels have created significant tension in the Bab-al-Mandeb Strait, a critical maritime chokepoint. There are growing concerns that such attacks could severely disrupt the global oil supply chain and lead to increased energy prices worldwide.

US House Passes 95 Billion Dollar Defense Budget

Amidst the ongoing conflict, President Donald Trump secured a major political victory as the US House of Representatives passed a 95 billion dollar defense budget proposal. The bill was approved with a narrow margin of 216-214 votes and will now move to the Senate for final approval. This budget is specifically designed to provide additional funding for the war efforts against Iran and other national security requirements. The allocation of the 95 billion dollar fund includes 60 billion dollars for the Pentagon, 13 billion dollars for other national security needs, 12 billion dollars for farmer assistance, and 10 billion dollars for the SAVE America Act, which involves changes to voting laws. While Republicans argue the funds are essential for military readiness, Democrats have opposed the bill, suggesting the money should be directed toward domestic needs. The close vote indicates a challenging path ahead in the Senate.

Casualties Reported in Strike Near Iraq Border

The conflict has also seen direct hits on border infrastructure. US forces conducted an airstrike at the Shalamcheh border crossing, located on the Iran-Iraq border. Iraqi media reports indicate that the strike targeted a rest area used by the Iranian police at the crossing. The Deputy Governor of Iran's Khuzestan province confirmed that at least 2 people have died as a result of this American attack. Authorities are currently working to identify the deceased and assess the full extent of the damage. The Shalamcheh crossing is a vital route between Iran and Iraq, and this strike marks a significant expansion of the target list into sensitive border zones.

IRGC Claims Explosion in Strait of Hormuz

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) of Iran has made a bold claim regarding an incident in the Strait of Hormuz. According to the IRGC, an oil tanker caught fire following an explosion while passing through the southern route near the coast of Oman. Following the blast, two other ships on the same route reportedly turned back. The IRGC alleged that these three vessels were navigating through a mine-infested area at the behest of the United States. The Guard Corps asserted that they maintain full control over the Strait of Hormuz and warned that no oil tankers would be allowed to pass unless the US ceases its activities. They issued a stern warning that any ship attempting to traverse the route without communicating with Iran would face a similar fate.