US and Iran Exchange Massive Strikes After Diplomatic Collapse

A severe military escalation between the United States and Iran intensified between July 16 and 18, 2026, following the collapse of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Donald Trump oversaw a campaign by U.S. Central Command that involved seven consecutive nights of airstrikes targeting Iranian airports, surveillance sites, and maritime infrastructure in Hormozgan and Sistan and Baluchestan provinces. The U.S. also implemented a naval blockade in the Gulf of Oman and revoked oil sanctions waivers, asserting control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Iran responded through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) with a series of coordinated missile and drone campaigns termed Operation Nasr 2 and Operation Lightning. These strikes targeted U.S. military assets in Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, Bahrain, and Oman, including the Al-Udeid and Ali Al-Salem air bases. The IRGC Navy further intercepted four ships in the Strait of Hormuz and reported that two oil tankers exploded after hitting mines. Major General Mohsen Rezaei warned that Tehran would transition to full-scale offensive operations if U.S. strikes continued.

Israel remains on high alert, with the Israel Defense Forces preparing for potential entry into the conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the era of allowing attacks without retaliation has ended. While the U.S. claims to have degraded Iran's naval capabilities, the IRGC maintains its forces are operational. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets, pushing oil prices above 86 dollars per barrel as both sides vie for control of the Strait of Hormuz.