US strikes Iranian missile sites near Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions

KATHMANDU: The United States military has carried out targeted strikes on Iranian missile installations near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, according to the United States Central Command.

In a statement on Tuesday, the command confirmed that American forces used multiple 5,000-pound deep-penetration munitions to hit fortified missile sites along Iran’s coastal region.

These installations reportedly housed anti-ship cruise missiles that posed a serious threat to international shipping passing through the narrow waterway.

The strikes come amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump told reporters in Washington, D.C. that the United States was not prepared to halt its military operations against Iran.

Trump also expressed frustration with NATO allies, revealing that several member states, along with key partners such as Japan, Australia, and South Korea, had declined his proposal for a joint escort mission in the Strait of Hormuz.

He emphasized that the United States is capable of acting independently if necessary.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, with countries including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates relying heavily on the route for crude oil exports.

The latest escalation follows a major offensive launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on Feb 28.

The conflict has already disrupted global shipping, driven up oil prices, and sparked concerns over broader impacts on the world economy.