Iran Targets Gulf Oil Facilities as U.S. Intensifies Air Campaign

The conflict between the U.S. and Iran escalated over the last 24 hours as Iranian missile and drone barrages struck critical oil storage facilities in Oman and Bahrain. The attacks hit the Muharraq facility in Bahrain and the Salalah port in Oman, causing widespread flight cancellations across the Gulf states and stranding thousands of travelers. In response, U.S. Central Command released declassified footage showing the methodical destruction of Iranian warplanes, including C-130 Hercules and P-3F Orion aircraft, as part of a broader effort to neutralize Tehran's air capabilities. President Donald Trump reiterated claims of victory in the opening stages of "Operation Epic Fury," stating that U.S. forces have destroyed 58 Iranian naval ships and will secure the Strait of Hormuz. However, the financial toll of the conflict is rising rapidly, with the U.S. spending $11.3 billion in the first six days alone. Democratic Senator Chris Murphy has expressed skepticism regarding the current strategy, questioning its effectiveness following a classified briefing. On the ground, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. Iranian officials report over 1,300 civilian fatalities and extensive damage to nearly 10,000 sites due to U.S. and Israeli bombing. Meanwhile, millions in Israel remain in shelters as Hezbollah and Iranian missiles continue to target the region. The IRGC has signaled its readiness for a prolonged war of attrition, claiming it can sustain high-intensity fighting for at least six months using advanced munitions.