New hostilities in the Middle East
The United States reported the death of another soldier in Iraq during the controlled detonation of an Iranian drone. The number of American soldiers killed since the start of the war amounts to 17.
On Sunday, Washington launched more bombings against the Iranian Revolutionary Guard, in response to Friday’s attack in Jordan that left victims. The US Central Command reported that it hit coastal surveillance facilities, air defense and missile and drone warehouses, seeking to degrade Iran’s ability to control the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran reported that the bombings hit a nuclear power plant construction site in Darkhovin, although the IAEA said the site was in the initial stages and without nuclear material.
In parallel, Iran launched missiles towards Jordan, which were shot down by Jordanian air defenses. The Israeli army warned that these projectiles could reach its territory, activating alerts in Eilat.
“We are prepared to immediately resume combat,” said the Israeli Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir.
Attacks on civil infrastructure
Kuwait reported a second attack on a power and desalination plant, vital to the supply of drinking water. The Gulf Cooperation Council accused Iran of war crimes for damaging civilian facilities.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil, has seen maritime traffic fall drastically: just eight transits on Saturday, compared to a daily average of 140 before the conflict. The United States imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports and has redirected six ships.
Iranian Supreme Leader Mokhtaba Khamenei warned of “unforgettable lessons” if attacks continue. Iran reported at least 50 deaths and 517 injuries in the recent bombings. Negotiations for a permanent ceasefire, initially agreed for 60 days, are stalled.
