Core Summary

The US military carried out its seventh consecutive night of strikes on Iran early on July 18, with targets expanding to key bridge infrastructure to sever supply lines. Tehran has threatened a “full-scale” counter-offensive as Middle East tensions continue to escalate.

Event Details

US Central Command confirmed completion of the seventh straight night of strikes against Iran. Unlike previous rounds that focused primarily on military installations and radar sites, this phase targeted transportation bridges connecting key military nodes within Iran. The Wall Street Journal quoted US defense officials saying the move aims to “cut the arteries” of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard logistics network.

Iran responded forcefully. According to Al Jazeera, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson condemned the “aggression” and warned of retaliatory strikes against US allies in the region. Brent crude oil prices continued to climb amid the escalation.

France 24 reported that Tehran is threatening a “full-scale” offensive, further deteriorating the already tense Middle East situation.

Strategic Analysis

The expansion of targets to include bridges marks a dangerous new phase in the conflict. From a military strategy perspective, targeting transportation infrastructure is a classic “strangulation” approach designed to degrade combat capability by paralyzing logistics networks. However, historical evidence suggests such strategies often prove counterproductive.

The geopolitical ripple effects are multiplying: global energy markets face severe challenges with rising Brent crude prices, the Strait of Hormuz navigation security is increasingly concerning, and regional power dynamics are accelerating realignment.

Perspectives

Al Jazeera emphasized Iran’s position and called for international pressure on Washington. The Wall Street Journal viewed the bridge strikes as “precise and necessary” military measures. CNN focused on operational details and official statements. France 24 highlighted the impact on Europe, particularly energy price surges and refugee risks.

Source: Al Jazeera / WSJ / CNN / France 24 | Editor: GoodInfo Global News Team