ALBAWABA- At least 35 people have been killed and more than 300 injured since the United States intensified its airstrikes on southern Iran, Iran's Health Ministry said on Wednesday, as President Donald Trump warned of further military action and deepened Washington's confrontation with Tehran.
According to Iranian officials, the casualties resulted from a series of U.S. strikes targeting Qeshm Island, Kish Island, and most recently Hengam Island in the Persian Gulf. Iranian media reported explosions near power facilities and damage to boats in port areas following the latest attacks.
The escalation comes as Trump formally notified Congress of his decision to expand U.S. military operations against Iran, while vowing to increase pressure on Tehran. The administration has also announced plans to enforce a targeted maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, positioning the United States as the "Guardian of the Strait" and proposing a 20% transit fee on commercial shipping passing through the strategic waterway.
Responding to the latest developments, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said Tehran's compliance with international commitments depends entirely on reciprocal action by other parties. "Our commitments remain in effect only as long as the other side fulfills its pledges.
After the other party violated its obligations, we also refrained from implementing ours in any area where it was required," he said. Baghaei added that Iran "will not remain passive" in the face of continued military escalation, warning that Iranian forces are prepared to respond with "strength and capability" and that "necessary measures will be taken in other areas" if the attacks continue.
The latest exchange marks a sharp escalation in tensions following weeks of reciprocal military strikes between the United States and Iran. The confrontation has heightened concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy corridors, raising fears of broader regional instability and potential disruptions to global oil supplies. With both Washington and Tehran signaling their readiness to continue military operations, international calls for de-escalation have intensified as the crisis continues to unfold.
