U.S. Launches 11th Consecutive Night of Airstrikes on Iran as Trump Signals Possible Strike on Secret Nuclear Site

U.S. Air Campaign Reaches 11th Consecutive Night

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) carried out its 11th consecutive night of airstrikes against Iranian military targets on July 21, continuing operations designed to reduce Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

According to CENTCOM, the latest strikes targeted Iranian military operations centers, maritime capabilities, aircraft hangars, drone storage facilities, and military logistics infrastructure.

Protecting Freedom of Navigation

U.S. officials said the campaign follows repeated Iranian attacks on international shipping. Over the past three months, Iran has reportedly attacked more than 30 commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, placing hundreds of civilian mariners at risk and disrupting one of the world's most important trade routes.

Despite the ongoing conflict, the Strait of Hormuz remains open. Since early May, CENTCOM says it has helped facilitate the safe transit of approximately 900 commercial vessels carrying around 450 million barrels of crude oil.

Trump Signals Possible Strike on Secret Nuclear Facility

President Donald Trump also warned that the United States could target what is believed to be a secret Iranian nuclear facility known as "Pickaxe Mountain" (Kuh-e Kolang), signaling that additional military action remains under consideration.

Iran responded by warning that any U.S. strike against its nuclear facilities would trigger attacks on American assets throughout the Middle East, increasing concerns that the conflict could expand further.

Regional Tensions Continue to Rise

The United States says its military operations are focused on degrading Iran's military capabilities and protecting international freedom of navigation. Iranian officials have vowed continued retaliation, keeping the region on edge as the confrontation enters its second week.