US military completes ‘heavy wave of strikes’ on Iran, targeting IRGC sites after brief pause in attacks; oil prices spike 7.3% to $88 a barrel.

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The US military has concluded a heavy wave of strikes against Iran, targeting numerous Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) sites. Central Command reported that the strikes included military command centers, missile and drone facilities, and coastal defense sites, aimed at diminishing threats to US forces and commercial shipping.¹²³⁴

This military action was a direct response to Iran's attempted missile attacks on US forces, which were intercepted successfully. Centcom noted that IRGC forces had launched multiple ballistic missiles in an attempted surprise attack on Tuesday. The escalation in hostilities has led to a significant spike in oil prices, with Brent crude rising 7.3% to $88 a barrel.⁵

The situation has been further complicated by Saudi Arabia's involvement, as they joined the US in targeting an Iranian-backed militia in Iraq, pushing the region into what analysts describe as “uncharted territory.” This renewed conflict follows a brief pause in US attacks, during which Iran and its proxies continued to target US bases and facilities in the region, including in Saudi Arabia. Donald Trump is reportedly considering a US commander’s plan for a prolonged air campaign against Iran.⁷

Key Insight

“The strikes were a response to Iran's attempted missile attacks on US forces, aiming to reduce threats to American personnel and commercial shipping. Additionally, Donald Trump is considering a punishing air campaign against Iran that could last up to two weeks, pushing the region into uncharted territory.”