Tehran

Iran has intensified its military campaign, launching the 76th wave of “Operation True Promise 4,” according to state broadcaster Press TV, targeting what it described as infrastructure linked to Israel.

The latest offensive, as reported, is aimed at the “Zionist regime’s infrastructures and other targets,” and comes as part of Tehran’s retaliation for alleged Israeli strikes on Iranian civilians and facilities.

Escalation continues

The continued waves of attacks indicate a high-intensity phase of the conflict, with Iran maintaining sustained aerial operations. The campaign is part of a broader military response following escalating hostilities in the region.

The conflict itself began after the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, triggering widespread retaliation by Iran across the region.

US signals temporary pause

Amid rising tensions, Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in US strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, citing “productive” ongoing discussions with Tehran.

In a statement, Trump said the decision was based on the “constructive” nature of recent engagements and that talks would continue through the week, raising cautious hopes for de-escalation.

Strait of Hormuz remains critical

The conflict has severely impacted global energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for oil and gas shipments—which Iran has effectively restricted during the crisis.

Earlier, Trump had issued a strong warning demanding that Iran reopen the strait, threatening major strikes on Iranian power infrastructure if it failed to comply.

Iran warns of wider retaliation

Iranian leadership has responded with its own warnings. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that any attack on Iran’s infrastructure would trigger retaliatory strikes on energy facilities across the region, potentially pushing global oil prices higher.

Uncertain path ahead

While the temporary halt in US strikes suggests a possible diplomatic opening, conflicting narratives persist, with Tehran previously denying that any direct or indirect talks with Washington are underway.

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As the war enters its fourth week, the international community is closely watching whether the current pause leads to meaningful de-escalation or merely a brief lull in an increasingly volatile conflict.