Key facts
- Explosions have been reported on Iran's Qeshm and Kharg islands.
- US forces launched strikes against Iran following attacks on three ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iranian state media reported explosions in Qeshm and Bandar Abbas after US strikes.
- CENTCOM confirmed launching strikes on Iran after three tankers were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian media has reported renewed explosions on Qeshm Island and fresh blasts on Kharg Island, located south of the country. These reports emerged following US strikes targeting Iranian weapon launch sites and air defenses, which were described as lasting for hours. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed launching these strikes after three ships, including Qatari and Saudi Arabian tankers, were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media had previously reported sounds of explosions in Qeshm and Bandar Abbas after the US strikes commenced. Market pricing indicates a slight increase in the perceived likelihood of regime change in Iran before 2027, moving from 6% to 6.5%. These developments add to a series of recent escalations in the region, suggesting a volatile environment. US President Donald Trump has also criticized Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for not providing support in the conflict with Iran.