US claims it intercepted all Iranian missiles and drones in latest attack

WASHINGTON: The United States military has claimed that it successfully intercepted and neutralised all Iranian missiles and drones launched in the latest wave of attacks, as tensions continue to escalate across the Gulf region.

A US defence official, speaking to international media on condition of anonymity, said that Iranian projectiles were “fully engaged and defeated” by American and allied air defence systems, preventing any impact on key military installations.

The official further stated that Iran had attempted to strike multiple locations using a combination of missiles and drones, but none of the incoming weapons reached their intended targets.

According to early assessments, nearly 20 sites inside Iran were targeted in US retaliatory air operations, including radar installations, air defence systems, and surveillance infrastructure. The strikes reportedly took place in response to earlier hostilities near the Strait of Hormuz.

The US Central Command said its operations were a “measured response” following what it described as Iranian escalation in the region, including an attack that downed a US Apache helicopter near the maritime corridor earlier this week.

US officials confirmed that there were no reports of American casualties or fatalities in the latest exchange. “At this time, we have no indications of injury to US personnel or damage to our facilities,” the official added.

The US military had earlier carried out precision strikes on Iranian air defence networks and radar stations across several coastal regions. Reports from regional media suggested explosions were heard in areas including Qeshm Island and the ports of Sirik and Jask, all located near key shipping lanes.

Residents in parts of southern Iran reported multiple blasts during the night, with local sources citing heavy aerial activity in the vicinity of military installations.

Iranian authorities have not yet released a full official response regarding the effectiveness of their missile and drone operations. However, state-linked media maintained that their forces had targeted US-linked military positions in retaliation for earlier strikes.

The situation has intensified concerns over the stability of Gulf shipping routes, which are already under pressure due to ongoing hostilities. Energy markets reacted cautiously, with analysts warning that continued escalation could threaten global oil supplies passing through the Strait.

Military experts say both sides are increasingly relying on rapid retaliatory strikes, raising fears that miscalculation could further widen the conflict.

As the exchange of attacks continues, diplomatic channels remain under strain, with international observers calling for urgent de-escalation to prevent a broader regional war.