A projectile approaches a target at an undisclosed location following strikes on Iran, according to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), in this screen grab taken from a handout video released on July 12, 2026. Reuters was unable to independently verify the location or the date on which the video was filmed. No earlier version of the video was found online prior to July 12. REUTERS.

Dubai: The US military said it has concluded its latest wave of strikes targeting Iran and reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial shipping.

In a statement, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the operation targeted Iranian air defence systems, radar sites, missile and drone equipment, as well as small boats.

CENTCOM said it used fighter aircraft, ships, aerial drones and naval drones during the operation, marking the first use of naval drones in such strikes.

“The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime corridor for global trade,” CENTCOM said. “Iran does not control it.”

The command added that US forces remain prepared to ensure freedom of navigation for commercial vessels despite what it described as Iran’s continued aggression, harassment, threats and unilateral declarations.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global oil and energy shipments.