Trump Threatens Fresh Strikes on Iran; Warns China Over Strait of Hormuz Oil Trade

Washington: The ongoing war between the United States and Iran has increased tensions worldwide. While the US military is continuously attacking Iran, Tehran is issuing stern warnings regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has also begun targeting US military bases. Meanwhile, the US has also taken significant action against several individuals and companies linked to China and Hong Kong.

What did the US official say?

On Wednesday, the US Treasury Department announced sanctions against 11 individuals and entities. The US alleges that these individuals and companies were helping Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Iranian military purchase weapons. 

The sanctions list includes several individuals and companies in China and Hong Kong. US officials said that some of these entities were part of Iran's secret financial network.

What did Donald Trump say?

US President Donald Trump stated clearly on Wednesday that Iran had delayed the agreement too long. He said, "We hit them hard yesterday and we'll hit them again today." 

Hours later, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed the launch of new strikes against several targets in Iran. CENTCOM said these strikes were being carried out in response to "Iran's continued and unjustified aggression."

Did Iran issue warning for Hormuz?

Tensions escalated further when Iran's top military command announced that ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz would be targeted. The Iranian side stated that any vessel, including oil tankers and merchant ships, could be targeted. Iranian media subsequently claimed that two oil tankers had been targeted. However, the US Central Command rejected Iran's claim, stating that the Strait of Hormuz has not been completely closed and that shipping continues to flow.

Explosions in southern Iran

According to Iranian media, loud explosions were heard in the Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and Minab areas of southern Iran. Iran's state broadcaster reported that air defense systems were activated in the Asaluyeh region, which is considered one of Iran's major energy and petrochemical centers.