Iran Guards say forces 'finger on the trigger' during 'silence on battlefield'

Attacks on Iran’s electricity infrastructure amount to attacks on civilians, a senior energy official said, citing damage to homes, hospitals and critical facilities.

Mostafa Rajabi Mashhadi, deputy energy minister, said 12 workers in the power sector had been killed during the recent conflict with the US and Israel and a separate 12-day war last year.

“Attacks on power infrastructure are attacks on the people,” he said, adding that disruptions affect households and essential services.

He said the incidents had strengthened the resolve of workers in the electricity and water sectors to maintain operations.

European countries have the capacity to clear mines and help secure shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, French Defence Minister Catherine Vautrin said on Friday.

Countries including Belgium, the Netherlands and France could contribute mine clearance and escort capabilities to ensure safe passage, she told TF1.

“There are capabilities to provide fully supported escort services, that is to say in no way offensive, for ships to ensure safe passage through the strait,” Vautrin said.

France and Britain are due to chair a meeting of around 40 countries in Paris later on Friday to discuss efforts to restore freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz typically carries about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas flows.

The US Central Command said the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) is conducting blockade operations in the Arabian Sea.

The carrier’s air wing includes F-35C stealth fighters, F/A-18 jets, EA-18G electronic attack aircraft, E-2D command and control planes, as well as helicopters and logistics aircraft, it said.

Iran has suspended the operation of all kindergartens until further notice, a senior official said.

The head of the country’s early childhood education authority said the decision was taken to prioritize children’s health, adding that any violations would be addressed.

He said safeguarding children would take precedence over education for now.

US Central Command said on Thursday American naval forces remain on watch as they continue enforcing restrictions on ships entering or leaving Iranian ports.

"Sailors aboard guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119) stand watch as US forces remain vigilant and enforce the blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports and coastal areas," CENTCOM posted on X.