- US military strikes against Iran have escalated, marking the 13th night of operations aimed at degrading Iran's military capabilities.
- Bahrain activated its sirens early Friday, warning residents to shelter from detected fire as Iranian drones and missiles targeted the region.
- Tehran has retaliated by targeting American bases in Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, using drones and missiles in response to US attacks.
- Clashes over shipping routes have intensified, particularly in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, as Gulf states face frequent fire amid the escalating conflict.
- Iranian armed forces have warned that they may target non-military buildings used by US personnel in the region.
- Jordan reported that its air defense systems intercepted and shot down several missiles and drones launched from Iran, resulting in no casualties.
- US Central Command has stated that the strikes are part of a broader strategy to regain control over vital shipping routes in the region.
The U.S. military's ongoing strikes against Iran have escalated tensions in the region, leading to retaliatory attacks from Iranian forces.
Iranian drones and missiles targeted Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, with Bahrain's military reporting successful interceptions of several strikes.26
The U.S. Central Command stated that the strikes aim to degrade Iran's ability to threaten civilian mariners in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global oil and gas.
In response, Iran's military launched drone strikes against U.S. bases in neighboring countries, with Iranian officials threatening further retaliation. “For every proud citizen of the Islamic Republic of Iran who is martyred, one American service member will be sent to hell,” warned Ali Abdollahi, head of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya central military command.
The conflict has seen Gulf states increasingly targeted, with Jordan's military intercepting seven missiles and six drones launched from Iran, resulting in no casualties.
As the situation intensifies, the Houthis have threatened to disrupt another key trade route, the Bab El-Mandeb Strait, further complicating the already fragile global economy.
The U.S. has vowed “major military punishment” against Iran and its allies if attacks on shipping continue, as President Trump emphasizes the need for control over these critical maritime routes.
The price of Brent crude oil has surged, reflecting the heightened tensions and potential disruptions in oil supply.
“The US strikes, part of a 13th night of operations, aim to degrade Iran's maritime threat and regain control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media reported four killed and nine injured in the bombardment, and Houthi rebels threatened to shut down the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, sending oil above $100 a barrel.”
Arab News
The Guardian
