The conflict between the United States and Iran has intensified significantly after the U.S. launched another wave of airstrikes on Iranian military targets, prompting Tehran to retaliate with missile and drone attacks against American military installations across the Gulf region.
According to U.S. officials, the latest strikes targeted Coastal missile batteries, Air defence systems, Military bases and Radar installations on Iran’s southern coast. Washington said the operation was aimed at reducing Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping and international energy supplies in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes.
In response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks on U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, saying the strikes were retaliation for the American attacks on Iranian territory. Several Gulf nations activated air defence systems, while authorities assessed damage and monitored the security situation.
The Strait of Hormuz has become the focal point of the crisis. Iran has renewed threats to disrupt or block shipping through the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20% of the world’s traded oil passes. Shipping companies and energy markets remain on high alert amid fears of further attacks on commercial vessels and oil infrastructure.
President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. is prepared to launch additional military operations if Iran continues attacks on American forces or international shipping. Iranian leaders, however, have insisted they will continue responding to what they describe as American aggression until military operations against Iran cease.
The latest escalation follows the collapse of an interim ceasefire and stalled negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme. International leaders have urged both sides to avoid further escalation, warning that continued fighting could destabilize the Middle East, disrupt global trade, and push energy prices higher.
