In maps and photos: Five Iranian civilian bridges at risk of US strikes

In the wake of President Donald Trump's provocative "Bridge Day" ultimatum, five major Iranian civilian bridges have found themselves under the scrutiny of U.S. military planners. These engineering marvels, each costing millions of dollars to construct, are now at the center of geopolitical tension as the U.S. considers potential airstrikes in response to recent Iranian provocations.

The first bridge on the list is the Jam Caravan Bridge, a stunning 2.5-kilometer-long structure that spans the Sefidrud River in the northwestern province of Zanjan. Completed in 2016, this iconic arch bridge is not only a vital transportation link but also a symbol of Iranian engineering prowess. Its construction involved advanced techniques, including the use of prestressed concrete and state-of-the-art geotechnical engineering, making it a prime target for any U.S. military action.

Another bridge at risk is the Bandar Abbas Strait Bridge, a 10-kilometer-long tunnel-and-bridge complex connecting the island of Sirri to the mainland. This strategic infrastructure, completed in 2019, is crucial for Iran's defense capabilities, as it provides a direct route to the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. has long viewed this area as a flashpoint in the Middle East, and any disruption to this bridge could have significant implications for regional stability.

The third bridge on the list is the Fajr Bridge, a 12-kilometer-long cable-stayed structure that crosses the Karaj River in central Iran. This bridge, completed in 2015, is not only a vital link in Tehran's metropolitan transportation network but also serves as a model for future infrastructure projects in the region. Its destruction could have severe consequences for Iran's economy and daily life, as it connects the capital to major industrial zones and residential areas.

The fourth bridge at risk is the Roudbar Bridge, a 1.5-kilometer-long arch bridge that spans the Siahrud River in the Gilan province. This bridge, completed in 2017, is not only a testament to Iranian engineering but also a popular tourist attraction. Its picturesque location and innovative design have made it a favorite among both locals and visitors. The potential destruction of this bridge would not only disrupt transportation but also cause significant cultural and economic losses.

The final bridge on the list is the Kavir Bridge, a 12-kilometer-long viaduct that crosses the Dasht-e Kavir desert in central Iran. This unique structure, completed in 2019, is part of a major highway project aimed at improving connectivity across the country. Its destruction could isolate remote desert communities and disrupt trade routes, further straining Iran's already fragile economy.

The U.S. administration's decision to target these civilian bridges is based on the assumption that they play a crucial role in Iran's military and economic infrastructure. However, critics argue that such airstrikes would have disproportionate civilian casualties and could escalate tensions in the region. Iranian officials have warned that any attack on their infrastructure would be met with a robust response, potentially leading to a full-scale conflict.

As tensions mount, the fate of these five bridges hangs in the balance. Each one represents not only a significant investment in infrastructure but also a symbol of national pride and progress. The decision to strike or to avoid such action will have far-reaching consequences, not only for Iran but also for the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East and beyond.

In the coming days, the international community will closely monitor the situation, hoping for a diplomatic resolution that avoids further escalation. Meanwhile, the five bridges stand as silent witnesses to the fragile state of U.S.-Iran relations, their very existence now a point of contention in a high-stakes geopolitical game.