US and Iran exchange strikes near Strait of Hormuz as casualties rise

Direct military hostilities between the United States and Iran have re-escalated across the Middle East following a month-long lull. American forces launched strikes against Iranian military positions near the Strait of Hormuz, targeting installations on Qeshm and Larak islands, as well as locations in Bandar Abbas and Sirik. According to local reporting, at least 11 people were killed in the bombardment, including four victims at a wedding venue.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched retaliatory strikes across the region. Teheran claimed "extensive damage" to airbases in Jordan, though Jordanian forces reported intercepting eight incoming missiles. Iranian sources also stated two commercial vessels were set ablaze after striking naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, contradicting assertions from US President Donald Trump that American forces retain control over the strategic corridor. Trump warned that further attacks would "hit hard," while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated calls for diplomatic dialogue.

Sources: 8 Sidor, Dagens Industri, Dagens Nyheter, Svenska Dagbladet, Sydsvenskan.