US Strikes 90 Targets in Iran; IRGC Retaliates in Bahrain

The kinetic confrontation between Washington and Tehran reached a new peak overnight as a U.S. official confirmed that the ceasefire is over, at least temporarily. The latest American operation involved precision strikes on 90 distinct targets, including a maritime control tower, missile storage facilities, and advanced air defense systems. This escalation follows a period of heightened tension and marks one of the most extensive U.S. bombing campaigns in recent months. ### Retaliation and Diplomatic Pressure In response to the American strikes, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched attacks against targets in Bahrain. While the specific nature of these targets remains under review, the move underscores the IRGC's strategy of regional retaliation against U.S. allies and assets. President Donald Trump addressed the development on Thursday morning, asserting that the Iranian regime had reached out to request a diplomatic settlement. "The Iranians called and they want a deal," Trump stated, though he expressed skepticism regarding their sincerity, adding that the U.S. response was "20 times harder" than any Iranian provocation. ### Strategic Context and Outlook The collapse of the ceasefire follows the earlier failure of the 'Islamabad Agreement' and a shift in American policy toward large-scale retaliatory measures. The inclusion of maritime control infrastructure in the target list suggests a focus on degrading Iran's ability to threaten international shipping lanes. As the situation remains fluid, observers are monitoring the potential for further escalation in the Gulf, particularly as the Trump administration maintains its dual approach of maximum military pressure coupled with a stated openness to a deal on American terms.