Four Iranians were martyred and five others injured early Friday when US forces launched a missile strike against targets on the outskirts of Ahvaz, the capital of Khuzestan Province, according to local authorities.
Valiollah Hayati, Khuzestan’s deputy governor for security and law enforcement affairs, confirmed that American forces targeted locations near the oil-rich city in what Tehran condemns as the latest act of illegal military aggression against the Islamic Republic. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene, and the wounded are currently receiving medical treatment, Hayati said. Authorities continue to assess the full scope of damage inflicted by the attack.
The assault marks the 13th consecutive night of US military operations against Iranian targets, according to US Central Command. In a statement released Friday morning, CENTCOM said the strikes commenced at 6:45 pm Eastern Time (22:45 GMT) on Thursday, describing the ongoing campaign as an effort to hold Tehran “accountable.”
Iranian officials have repeatedly denounced the strikes as a flagrant violation of international law and a direct assault on the nation’s sovereignty. The Iranian government has made clear that its armed forces stand ready to deliver a firm and decisive response to any further acts of hostility by the United States.
The people of Khuzestan, who have long been recognized for their steadfast resistance and sacrifices in defense of the nation, once again demonstrate unwavering resolve in the face of foreign aggression, provincial officials said. Iranian leaders have vowed that the blood of the martyrs will only strengthen the nation’s determination to confront those who threaten its independence and Islamic values.
The United States has not yet provided specific details regarding the nature of the targets struck in Friday’s attack.
Source: Iranian media (edited by Al-Manar)