Iran Escalates Strikes, Strait of Hormuz Targeted

Iran launched its "most intense and heaviest operation" on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, amid escalating conflict with Israel and the United States, leading to renewed strikes in Iran and attacks on shipping near the Strait of Hormuz. Three vessels were reportedly hit by unknown projectiles near the Strait of Hormuz, with three crew members from a Thai vessel unaccounted for. Sources indicated Iran has begun laying mines in the critical waterway.

Israel initiated an "additional wave" of strikes on targets in Tehran and northern Iran, with nighttime air raids lasting nearly an hour reported by a CNN team. Iran's UN ambassador stated that over 1,300 people have died in US-Israeli strikes since the conflict began. Russia is reportedly providing Iran with specific advice on drone tactics.

The son of Iran's president confirmed that new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is safe, following rumors of injury from US-Israeli strikes. Khamenei has not been seen publicly since his election on Sunday. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties across the region, with 570 deaths in Lebanon, 18 in Iraq, 12 in Israel, 12 in Kuwait, and 6 in the UAE, according to various regional sources.