Iran claims military strength grew from war experience as US offers $20m nuclear reward

Iran's military spokesperson said Saturday that its forces are stronger than before the war, citing experience from direct confrontation with the US and Israel, while the US offered a $20 million reward for information on Iran's nuclear program. The conflict began when the US and Israel attacked Iran in late February, with Iran limiting traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries about one-fifth of global oil consumption. Spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia said Tehran retains control of the waterway and will keep it closed until demands are met, state news agency IRNA reported. The US State Department's Rewards for Justice program seeks information on Iran's nuclear facilities and personnel, citing lost "continuity of knowledge" over key components like centrifuges. President Donald Trump claimed US forces obliterated Iran's nuclear program, while mediators work to prevent resumed fighting after eight months of war.