The United States has conducted a ninth consecutive day of strikes against Iran, targeting military command centers and infrastructure. These strikes follow Iran's warning that the Strait of Hormuz will remain unsafe while US “aggression” continues, a statement made after two oil tankers were reportedly damaged. US Central Command asserts the attacks aim to diminish Iran’s ability to disrupt commercial shipping through the critical waterway, which has seen escalating tensions. Reports indicate Iranian cities including Tabriz and Chabahar were struck, while Iran claims to have retaliated by targeting US bases in Syria and Jordan. Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed the US will continue responding to Iranian actions affecting global shipping. The recent escalation follows the collapse of a month-old ceasefire, intensifying the struggle for control of the Strait of Hormuz and raising concerns about energy supply disruptions and global inflation. Despite military action, the US maintains it remains open to a diplomatic resolution.