Iran Broadens Retaliation as Hormuz Reopening Remains in Doubt

Huo Xing Finance reports that Middle East tensions intensified overnight into the morning of July 15. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had launched "Operation Nasr 2" and claimed the United States had entered a "state of formal war." Iran said it struck U.S. military facilities in Bahrain and Jordan, alleging it destroyed Patriot radar systems, the U.S. Navy Fifth Fleet's air-defense radar, and CRAM early-warning systems, and also claimed it hit the Fifth Fleet's headquarters. Iran also reported an explosion at a U.S. military base in Kuwait and said it attacked and destroyed two vessels in violation of international norms. The United States said it has completed a new round of strikes on Iran. U.S. officials said American forces carried out multiple additional attacks on Iranian military targets on Tuesday to neutralize emerging threats. Washington also said around 50,000 U.S. troops are currently deployed across the Middle East. Within Iran, reports cited explosions or attacks in several areas, including western Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, Bonpul, Chabahar, and Hengam Island. Air-defense systems were activated near the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Jordan said it intercepted and shot down four missiles launched from Iranian territory that entered its airspace. On the Strait of Hormuz, Iran's military said the waterway will not reopen while U.S. military actions continue. The IRGC added that reopening would remain delayed as long as U.S. operations persist. France said it is prepared to join mine-clearing efforts if needed, and Oman reiterated its mediation role aimed at restoring freedom of navigation through the strait. U.S. messaging on possible Hormuz transit fees also shifted. White House officials had previously said President Trump was seriously considering a 20% transit charge, but Trump later said no one should levy fees for passage. U.S. Energy Secretary Wright confirmed the United States has dropped consideration of a 20% toll. Separately, Lebanon and Israel are holding talks in Rome, Italy, on implementing an agreement to end hostilities, including buffer-zone delineation and a timetable for Israeli troop withdrawals. Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned Britain's move to label the IRGC a national security threat. Iran's deputy foreign minister said Tehran currently has no commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.