Trump announces pursuit of control over the Strait of Hormuz, and raids target Tehran and Tabriz

Official Iranian sources reported today, Sunday, that strategic sites in the capital Tehran and the city of Tabriz were subjected to a series of aerial attacks carried out by American and Israeli forces. The targets included Mehrabad International Airport, a vital artery in the capital, as well as a major petrochemical facility in East Azerbaijan Province.

These field developments come within the framework of the open military confrontation that began on February 28th, which has resulted in significant human losses among the Iranian leadership. Among the most prominent victims of this war were the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with an elite group of security and military leaders who perished in previous strikes.

On the political front, US President Donald Trump made what were described as decisive statements, confirming that the United States is actively working to control the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump explained in an interview with Hebrew media that this move comes in the context of dealing with increasing regional challenges related to Iranian activity in the region.

Trump emphasized the strength of the alliance between Washington and Tel Aviv, describing it as stronger than ever under the current circumstances. He noted that there is daily and close coordination with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to ensure the achievement of common goals in this confrontation, which has entered its second month.

On the ground in Tabriz, Majid Farshi, Director of Crisis Management in East Azerbaijan Province, confirmed that the attack targeted a sensitive petrochemical facility in the region. He explained that search and rescue teams are continuing their work at the incident site to assess the damage, confirming that the situation is under full control with no detection of any leakage of hazardous chemicals.

In the capital Tehran, a state of anticipation prevailed after Mehrabad Airport was targeted, as authorities have not yet issued a detailed statement regarding the extent of the damage or the impact of the raids on air traffic. These strikes represent a qualitative escalation deep within Iranian territory, targeting economic and military infrastructure alike.

For its part, Tehran continues to respond to these attacks by launching barrages of ballistic missiles and drones towards Israeli targets. Reports also indicate the targeting of what Iran describes as American interests in several Arab countries, leading to casualties and material damage that have prompted widespread international condemnation.

Observers believe that Trump's statement regarding the Strait of Hormuz represents a fundamental shift in the war's objectives, as it goes beyond mere airstrikes to seeking control over the most important global waterways. This step raises concerns about the expansion of the conflict to directly include global energy security and international freedom of navigation.

Despite Trump's earlier announcement of a brief postponement of targeting Iranian energy facilities, the recent raids on the Tabriz facility indicate the resumption of operations against the oil and chemical sectors. This approach reflects a desire to dry up Iranian funding sources and undermine the country's industrial capabilities amid ongoing battles.

Military operations continue in the absence of any horizon for a political solution, with both the American and Israeli sides insisting on continuing military pressure to achieve a radical change in regional power balances. In contrast, Tehran affirms its continued 'resistance' and response to any aggression against its sovereignty or leadership, portending a hot summer in the Middle East region.

We are working to effectively control the Strait of Hormuz, and our coordination with Netanyahu is close, and we have good relations.