Washington

The United States Central Command has released footage of airstrikes targeting Iranian naval vessels, as tensions in West Asia continue to escalate.

In a statement posted on X, the command said Iranian vessels had “threatened and harassed global shipping in regional waters for decades,” adding that such actions would no longer be tolerated.

Amid the escalating situation, Iran has claimed that it carried out retaliatory strikes against US positions. According to Iran’s state-affiliated Tasnim News Agency, a spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters alleged that missile and drone strikes targeted two US Army “hideouts” in Dubai, resulting in “heavy casualties.”

The spokesperson claimed that over 500 US personnel were present at the locations and that hundreds were killed or injured in the attacks. These claims, however, have not been independently verified.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) was cited as having identified and struck the targets with precision, while the spokesperson further alleged that emergency services in Dubai were engaged for hours responding to the casualties.

In strongly worded remarks, the spokesperson warned that the region could become a “graveyard” for American forces if hostilities continue.

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian cautioned Gulf countries against supporting the United States and Israel, urging them not to allow their territories to be used for military operations against Iran.

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran does not initiate conflicts but would respond forcefully if its infrastructure or economic centres are targeted.

“We have said many times that Iran doesn't carry out preemptive attacks, but we will retaliate strongly if our infrastructure or economic centres are targeted,” he said, adding that regional nations should prioritise stability and development by staying out of the conflict.

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The developments mark a sharp escalation in the ongoing crisis, with both sides issuing strong warnings and claims as the situation remains highly volatile.