US says about 6,000 targets hit in Iran as operation continues

By Diyar Guldogan

WASHINGTON (AA) - The US Central Command (CENTCOM) on Thursday said it has struck about 6,000 targets inside Iran, including dozens of naval vessels, as part of the ongoing operation, which began last month.

According to a fact sheet from CENTCOM, the US has damaged or destroyed more than 90 vessels, including over 30 minelayers.

The US military said a wide range of air, naval and ground systems have been employed in the operation, including strategic bombers, fighter aircraft, drones and missile defense systems.

Regional tensions have escalated since Feb. 28, when the US and Israel launched a joint attack on Iran that has killed more than 1,300 people, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.

Iran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel and Gulf countries that are home to US military assets.