U.S. Strikes 40+ Iran Sites; Tehran Hits Back at Bases in Iraq, Jordan, Bahrain

U.S. Central Command struck more than 40 locations across southern and central Iran overnight, targeting IRGC air defense systems, radar, naval facilities, mine-laying capabilities, and communications infrastructure. Iran's government responded with drone and missile attacks on U.S. military installations in Iraq, Jordan, and Bahrain. Iranian officials and state media claim at least 12 civilians were killed, including five in Sirik, Hormozgan province, where a U.S. missile allegedly struck a wedding ceremony; the U.S. military denied targeting civilians, stating all strikes were directed at IRGC military assets. IRGC public relations stated that U.S. forces would face 'economic and military' consequences. The incident is described by multiple outlets as the most intense exchange since July.