New Delhi, July 15 -- The United States has launched a fresh round of airstrikes on Iran, this time carrying out attacks during daylight hours, signalling an escalation in its military campaign as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz continue to intensify.

According to the Associated Press (AP), the US military's Central Command confirmed on Wednesday that the new strikes had begun, marking a shift from previous operations that were conducted only at night.

"The strikes are designed to further degrade military capabilities Iranian forces have used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz," Central Command said in a statement.

The renewed attacks come as an interim agreement between Washington and Tehran has effectively colla...