Iran has released a list of eight major bridges across the Gulf and Jordan, signalling possible retaliatory targets after a deadly strike on a bridge near Karaj. The list was issued on Thursday by Fars News Agency, which is closely linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
The development came hours after a powerful airstrike destroyed parts of the B1 bridge near Karaj, marking the first time a civilian structure has been targeted by the United States since the conflict began on Februaary 28. Track US-Iran war live updates
At least eight civilians were killed in the strike, according to an Associated Press report. Iran’s state media, citing authorities in Alborz province, said 95 others were injured. Many of them had gathered under the bridge and along the riverbank to celebrate “Nature Day” when the attack took place.
The B1 bridge, a newly constructed structure connecting Tehran and Karaj, was scheduled to open later this year.
Iran’s target list
Fars reported that several bridges across Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Jordan have been identified as potential targets for Iranian military operations, in response to the US-Israeli strike on the B1 bridge in Karaj.
The bridges named include the Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Bridge in Kuwait; the King Fahd Causeway connecting Saudi Arabia and Bahrain; the Sheikh Zayed Bridge and Al Maqta Bridge in the UAE; as well as the King Hussein Bridge, Damia Bridge, Sheikh Khalifa Bridge, and Abdoun Bridge in Jordan.
Donald Trump warns of further strikes
Donald Trump on Thursday signalled a potential escalation, warning of further strikes on Iran. He had earlier shared a video purportedly showing the bombing of the Karaj bridge.
“The US military has yet to begin fully targeting what remains in Iran. Bridges could be next, followed by electric power plants,” Trump wrote on social media, adding that Iran’s leadership “knows what needs to be done – and must act quickly.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi strongly condemned the strike, saying, “Striking civilian structures, including unfinished bridges, will not compel Iranians to surrender.”
He added, “It only reflects the defeat and moral collapse of an adversary in disarray. Every bridge and building will be rebuilt stronger. What will not recover is the damage to America’s standing.”
Iran’s embassy in New Zealand also shared visuals of the collapsed bridge, stating: “Destruction of civilian infrastructure—this is the act of a desperate loser.”
Tensions continue to escalate across the Gulf
As tensions continue to rise, attacks and countermeasures are unfolding across the region.
Kuwait Petroleum Corporation said its Mina al-Ahmadi refinery was struck by drones, sparking fires in operational units, though no injuries were reported. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry said its air defence systems intercepted seven drones in recent hours.
Iran also claimed that its air defence systems shot down a second US F-35 fighter jet over central Iran, with a spokesperson stating that the chances of the pilot’s survival were low. There was no immediate response or confirmation from the United States regarding the claim.