The United States launched its 12th consecutive night of strikes against Iran early Thursday, as the conflict between the two countries continued to intensify with increasing attacks on civilian infrastructure. According to the US Central Command (CENTCOM), the latest strikes were aimed at further degrading Iran's ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial vessels operating in regional waters. 

"At 5:30 p.m. ET today, U.S. forces began launching more strikes against Iranian military targets at the Commander in Chief's direction. The mission will continue to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial vessels transiting regional waters," CENTCOM said in a post on X.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi warned that any aggression against Iran, including that against the country's infrastructure, would be met with a "decisive response" and those contributing to it will also be considered as "legitimate targets".

In a post on X, Araghchi said, "Our defense doctrine is clear: eye for an eye. Any aggression against Iran, including our infrastructure, will compel a powerful and decisive response. Those who contribute to such aggression, whatever the kind of support, will also be considered as legitimate targets."