Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Mar 18: The US Central Command said it carried out major airstrikes on Iranian missile sites near the Strait of Hormuz, deploying some of the most powerful conventional bombs in its arsenal to counter threats to global shipping.

In a statement, the command said US forces used multiple 5,000-pound deep penetrator munitions targeting hardened missile facilities along Iran’s coastline, citing risks posed by Iranian anti-ship cruise missiles to international maritime traffic.

The strikes come after Iran restricted access to the crucial waterway, through which nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes, triggering major disruptions in shipping and a surge in global energy prices.

The military action follows reluctance from US allies, including NATO, to support efforts to secure the strait. Donald Trump expressed frustration over the lack of backing, stating that the US was acting despite limited international support.

Trump maintained that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons was in global interest, though Tehran has consistently denied pursuing nuclear arms, asserting its programme is for peaceful purposes.

He also criticised allies for not contributing even minimal support such as deploying minesweepers, while indicating that the United States would continue handling the situation independently.

The escalation comes amid an ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran, with Benjamin Netanyahu having earlier pushed for stronger action against Tehran.

The bunker-buster bombs used in the strikes are designed to hit deeply buried or fortified targets, though they are less powerful than the 30,000-pound munitions reportedly used by the US in earlier strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.