Explosions were reported in multiple cities in southern Iran – Bandar Abbas, Qeshm, Minab, and Sirik – shortly after the United States confirmed it had conducted defensive strikes within the country. The locations are near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil transport. While the nature and targets of the US strikes haven’t been fully detailed, officials stated they were carried out in self-defense. Iranian state media initially reported the explosions without immediately attributing them to the US action. The incidents raise concerns about potential escalation in the region, already experiencing heightened tensions. No immediate details regarding casualties or damage have been released by either side. Further developments are expected as the situation unfolds.