Former National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the U.S. to increase support for Iranian opposition groups, arguing that Washington should not underestimate the influence of Iran's military leadership. Bolton's comments come amid rising tensions following U.S. strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions near the Strait of Hormuz, which have rattled global markets and raised concerns about energy security.

In a post on X on Sunday, Bolton stated that if the U.S. does not intend to act robustly against the regime in Iran before the November elections, it should focus resources on the opposition on the ground. He emphasized the strategic importance of this support in the absence of direct military action against Tehran.

Bolton's Assessment of Iranian Control

Bolton cautioned against the perception that the Iranian government is significantly weakened. He described the idea that the government is merely wounded but continuing as before as a "dangerous illusion." He noted that while a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was negotiated by civilians, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) remains the dominant military force.

"The MOU was negotiated by civilians, but the IRGC is still running the show militarily," Bolton said in a separate post on Sunday.

Market Impact and Diplomatic Stance

The exchange of strikes between the U.S. and Iran has introduced volatility into global markets. The U.S. launched strikes following an attack on a commercial ship near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by striking U.S. bases and claiming the key waterway was closed, a claim disputed by U.S. Central Command, which affirmed the waterway remains open to lawful traffic.

Diplomatic channels remain open, though strained. The Trump administration indicated that diplomacy is still possible but warned of an "overwhelming force" response to further aggression. U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matt Whitaker stated that President Trump is committed to peace but will act decisively if shipping is threatened. However, Iran reportedly refused to restart talks unless Washington changes its position, adding further pressure on energy markets and regional stability.

Iran's Mehr News Agency has reported a widening series of explosions across multiple locations in southern Iran, with blasts confirmed in Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Choghadak. The latest developments significantly expand the geographic scope of the incident, which had earlier involved strikes on Abu Musa Island and key port facilities along the Iranian coastline.

Incident Overview

According to Iran's state television, eight explosions were heard in Bandar Abbas. Separately, Mehr News Agency reported six explosions in Bushehr and Choghadak. Earlier reports had also confirmed that two projectiles struck Sirik Port and two further projectiles detonated at Jask Port, marking a pattern of strikes across multiple strategic coastal locations. Reports also indicated that two projectiles struck Abu Musa Island, near the Strait of Hormuz.

No additional details regarding the nature, origin, casualties, or broader context of the strikes have been provided in the available source information. Further information is expected to emerge as official communications from relevant authorities become available.