US Completes 13th Consecutive Night of Strikes on Iranian Military Targets

CENTCOM Continues Military Operations Against Iran

The US strikes on Iranian military targets continued for the 13th consecutive night as the United States expanded its military campaign in the Middle East. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest operation was completed at 9 p.m. Eastern Time on July 23. The military said the strikes were aimed at reducing Iran's ability to threaten international shipping and regional security.

CENTCOM said American forces successfully targeted several Iranian military facilities during the operation. The targets included military command centres, drone storage facilities, communication networks, coastal surveillance sites and maritime capabilities. The US military said these locations were being used to support activities that could threaten civilian ships and commercial vessels travelling through the Strait of Hormuz.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Open for Global Shipping

CENTCOM said the Strait of Hormuz remains open despite recent attacks linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The US military stated that commercial vessels are continuing to move safely through the strategic waterway with support from American forces operating in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's busiest and most important shipping routes. A large share of the world's oil and natural gas exports passes through the narrow waterway every day. Any disruption in this area can affect global energy supplies and increase oil prices worldwide.

US Says Mission Is to Protect Maritime Security

The latest strikes are part of an ongoing US campaign to protect international shipping and maintain freedom of navigation in the Gulf region. CENTCOM said the operation was designed to weaken Iran's military capabilities and reduce the risk of attacks on civilian mariners and commercial vessels.

The US military has increased its presence in the Middle East in recent weeks as tensions with Iran continue to rise. Officials said maintaining security in major shipping lanes remains one of their highest priorities.

More Than 50,000 US Troops Deployed Across the Middle East

According to CENTCOM, more than 50,000 US service members are currently deployed across the Middle East. These forces are supporting military operations, protecting US allies and helping secure key maritime routes during the ongoing regional crisis.

The continued deployment reflects Washington's commitment to protecting international trade routes and responding to security threats in the region.

Regional Tensions Continue to Grow

The US strikes on Iranian military targets come at a time of growing instability across the Middle East. Recent attacks involving Iran and its regional allies have raised concerns over the safety of commercial shipping, energy supplies and international trade.

Security analysts warn that any further escalation could affect global oil markets and increase risks for countries that depend on the Strait of Hormuz for energy imports. Diplomatic efforts are continuing, but the situation remains uncertain as military operations continue.