Centcom claims to have used unidirectional maritime drones for the first time in the offensive
Centcom (United States Central Command) concluded on Sunday (July 12, 2026) a new round of attacks against dozens of targets in Iran. According to the US military, the offensive aimed to reduce Iran’s ability to attack vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
Air defense systems, coastal radars, structures linked to missiles and drones and small vessels were hit. The operation mobilized fighters, ships, unidirectional attack aerial drones and, for the first time, maritime drones for the same purpose.
“The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor for global trade. Iran does not control it”Centcom stated. The command stated that US forces are positioned to guarantee freedom of commercial navigation, despite the threats and restrictions announced by Tehran.
The offensive intensified the exchange of attacks between the 2 countries. Iran responded with missiles and drones targeting US military installations in Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman and Qatar. Authorities in the region reported having intercepted part of the projectiles.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry declared that the US bombings had made diplomatic efforts undertaken in recent months to reduce tension unfeasible. Tehran also accused Washington of causing insecurity on the route and harming commercial navigation.
The Iranian government had declared passage through the strait suspended due to US military movements. The country is trying to implement a permanent system of authorizations and charging fees for vessels. Washington contests the measure and claims that traffic can follow a southern route, close to Oman.
The escalation increased uncertainty about the provisional agreement signed in June between the 2 countries. The document established the resumption of navigation and a period of 60 days of negotiations. US President Donald Trump (Republican Party) stated that the ceasefire had come to an end, but kept the possibility of new talks open.
Before the war, which began at the end of February, around 20% of the oil and liquefied natural gas transported in the world passed through the Strait of Hormuz. The new offensive caused international oil prices to exceed US$79.
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Source: https://www.poder360.com.br/poder-internacional/eua-atingem-dezenas-de-alvos-em-nova-onda-de-ataques-ao-ira/
