WANA (Jul 26) – Amir Akrami-Nia, spokesperson for the Iranian Army, said a large number of U.S. bases targeted during the recent confrontation have lost their operational effectiveness, adding that U.S. military infrastructure in Erbil, Iraq, has been “almost completely destroyed.”

 

According to Akrami-Nia, the confrontation began about two weeks ago after the United States allegedly violated the Islamabad Memorandum by establishing what he described as an “illegal and fabricated maritime route” south of the Strait of Hormuz, contrary to Article 5 of the agreement. He said Iran responded immediately, preventing the route from becoming operational, triggering approximately 15 days of military exchanges.

 

Iran’s “Retaliatory Deterrence” Strategy

Akrami-Nia said Iran’s military strategy throughout the confrontation was based on “retaliatory deterrence,” aimed at compelling Washington to comply with its commitments while preventing further attacks.

 

He stated that U.S. strikes continued until two nights ago, after which they stopped. Iran subsequently halted its retaliatory operations, saying its military actions were directly linked to U.S. attacks.

 

He added that Iranian operations focused on U.S. radar installations, logistical centers, and military infrastructure with an emphasis on speed and precision. He also said U.S. bases in Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain were among the primary targets of Iranian operations, while military infrastructure in Erbil had been “almost completely destroyed.”

A billboard threatening U.S. President Donald Trump on a building in Tehran, Iran, July 23, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Assessment of the U.S. Position

The army spokesperson said Washington currently lacks a coherent strategy and appears to be facing strategic decision-making difficulties.

 

He said the United States had sought to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, weaken Iran’s defense capabilities, and undermine the resolve of Iran’s armed forces, but had not achieved those objectives.

 

According to Akrami-Nia, Iranian forces continue to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz, while the country’s defensive capabilities have not only been preserved but further strengthened during the confrontation.

 

Possible U.S. Scenarios

Akrami-Nia outlined several possible courses of action for Washington, saying one option is to withdraw from the conflict, “if the Israeli regime allows it.” Other possibilities, he said, include expanding air operations, launching a ground offensive, or complying with the terms of the Islamabad Memorandum.

 

He also referred to the Israeli prime minister’s upcoming visit to the United States, saying differences remain between Washington and Tel Aviv over how the conflict should proceed.

 

The spokesperson added that continued air operations have imposed significant military, economic, and geopolitical costs on the United States. He said U.S. forces are facing growing constraints in munitions and air defense systems and have been forced to relocate aircraft frequently between bases across the region and beyond.

A statue symbolising the hand of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei next to a billboard depicting U.S. President Donald Trump laid in a coffin, in Tehran, Iran, July 23, 2026. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency)

Warning of a Wider Conflict

Akrami-Nia warned that if the United States continues its military operations, the geographical scope of the conflict will expand further.

 

He said the confrontation has already extended beyond the Strait of Hormuz to the Bab el-Mandeb and U.S. military facilities across the region, including bases in Jordan and several Gulf states. He added that Iran has prepared additional military strategies that could be employed if the conflict escalates.

 

Regional and Global Implications

The army spokesperson said the conflict has already affected regional security by driving up oil prices, increasing maritime insecurity, and disrupting shipping routes.

 

He also argued that the U.S.-led regional security architecture is weakening and that the region is moving toward a new security order shaped by regional countries without an American military presence.

 

On the international level, Akrami-Nia said the global balance of power is shifting toward a multipolar order, adding that the United States’ position in the international system has weakened significantly.

 

Military Readiness and Defense Upgrades

Akrami-Nia said Iran used the previous three-month ceasefire period to strengthen its defense capabilities, particularly its air defense network, repair existing systems, and introduce new military equipment into service.

 

He concluded by saying Iran’s armed forces continue to enhance their military readiness and defense production simultaneously, stressing that they are fully prepared for all potential scenarios involving the United States.