U.S. targets Iran to secure Hormuz
Strikes aim to protect global shipping
U.S. forces are continuing operations to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, Central Command chief Brad Cooper said, asserting the campaign aims to “rapidly deplete” Tehran’s capacity to disrupt freedom of navigation.
Cooper gave no operational details on how the strait would be reopened but said recent strikes on Kharg Island hit more than 90 military targets, including storage bunkers for naval mines and missiles. U.S. strikes since late February have focused on warships, mine‑laying vessels, drone boats and missile systems linked to threats against commercial traffic, part of an effort to secure a waterway that handles a large share of global energy shipments.
Officials say strikes are intended both to neutralize immediate dangers and to weaken Iran’s longer‑term naval capabilities. The campaign follows a period of heightened attacks on commercial vessels and warnings from Tehran about restricting passage; Washington has appealed for international support, though many partners have been reluctant to commit forces. The operations have contributed to continued shipping disruption and volatility in global energy markets.
