U.S. Central Command Confirms Strikes Against Iran Under Trump's Direction

The U.S. Central Command announced on July 8, 2026 that military operations targeting Iran are being carried out in accordance with directives from President Donald Trump in his capacity as supreme commander of the armed forces.

American military officials confirmed that forces have begun executing additional strikes against Iranian targets as part of the ongoing campaign.

The operations have reportedly resulted in explosions detected across multiple Iranian locations. State media outlets reported hearing blasts in the Abu Musa island region and in Jask. Power outages were also documented in sections of the Iranian city of Gachsaran following the sounds of explosions.

The Islamic Republic of Iran News Agency (IRNA) reported disruptions to electrical service in parts of Gachsaran after residents heard detonations in the area.

In response to the American military action, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps indicated it would retaliate against the strikes.

Separately, Iran's Mehr News Agency stated that the Bushehr nuclear power plant sustained no damage from the American operations.

In an unrelated development, Lebanese singer Fadi Shaker released a statement following his release, expressing gratitude for his freedom. "Today new chapters in liberty have been written for me, and I am grateful to God first and foremost, and to everyone who stood by my side and supported me throughout my case," he said. He requested understanding regarding his health and family circumstances, and asked for time to recover and attend to his family's wellbeing.