23.07.2026 07:40
On the 12th night of its strikes against Iran, the US used the B-1B Lancer strategic bomber for the first time. CENTCOM stated that the operations targeted Iran's missile and drone depots, naval assets, and air defense systems, while Iran announced that two rescue vessels in the Strait of Hormuz were severely damaged in the US attack.
The US has passed a critical threshold in its strikes against Iran. In the 12th consecutive night of air operations by CENTCOM, the B-1B Lancer strategic bomber was deployed for the first time. The use of this aircraft, known for its long range and high munition capacity, was interpreted as Washington escalating military pressure against Tehran to a new level.
Conflicts between the US and Iran continued unabated on the 12th night. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces completed another wave of strikes against Iran. The operation reportedly targeted Iran's naval assets, missile and drone depots, coastal surveillance systems, and air defense facilities. CENTCOM stated the aim of the strikes was to further degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian ships and commercial maritime traffic.
B-1B LANCER USED FOR THE FIRST TIME
The most notable development in the operation was the US using the B-1B Lancer strategic bomber for the first time. According to Axios, citing US officials, the B-1B bomber struck targets belonging to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Tuesday. This marks the first time the B-1B has been deployed since the conflicts resumed 12 days ago.
CLEAR MESSAGE: WASHINGTON INCREASES MILITARY PRESSURE
According to defense experts, the inclusion of the B-1B in the operation is not just the use of a new weapons platform, but also seen as a strategic message from the US to Iran. Capable of staying airborne for hours, covering long distances at high speed, and carrying large quantities of precision-guided bombs and dozens of cruise missiles, the B-1B Lancer is among the US Air Force's most powerful conventional bombers. Its deployment is interpreted as a sign that Washington is prepared to continue operations with heavier firepower.
FIRST STATEMENT FROM IRAN
Iran's Hormozgan Ports and Maritime Administration announced that in the US attack carried out before dawn, the rescue ships "Naji 15" and "Naji 16," operating in the Strait of Hormuz, were hit and sustained heavy damage. Iranian officials also reported that two explosions occurred near the city of Eslamabad-e Gharb in the western province of Kermanshah following US strikes. According to preliminary assessments, there were no casualties in the attacks.
12 CONSECUTIVE NIGHTS OF ATTACKS
CENTCOM announced that with the latest strike, the US carried out its 12th consecutive night of air operations against Iran. During this period, dozens of military targets were hit, and it was stated that the US continued its naval blockade of Iranian ports. The statement noted that over 50,000 American troops are deployed in the region and all forces remain on high alert.
TENSIONS RISE IN THE REGION
The US deploying the B-1B Lancer for the first time is seen as a new phase in military tensions in the Middle East. Experts believe that the use of strategic bombers could expand the scope of the conflict, and Iran's potential response could further raise tensions in the region.