US Strikes Iran as Gulf Tensions Escalate
The United States military launched fresh strikes on Iran on Wednesday, saying the operation was aimed at keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for global shipping. The move triggered a response from Iran, which carried out attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, both of which host U.S. military bases in the Gulf region.
U.S. Central Command, or CENTCOM, said the strikes were intended to weaken Iran’s ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Washington accused Tehran of being responsible for attacks on three cargo ships passing through the strategic waterway.
The U.S. strikes reportedly hit several cities along Iran’s southern coast and caused power outages in some areas. Iran responded with missile and drone attacks targeting Kuwait and Bahrain. Kuwait’s Defense Ministry said it was intercepting the incoming threats.
The escalation came after President Donald Trump said the interim ceasefire with Iran was likely “over.” He also warned that if attacks on ships continued, the U.S. response would become much stronger.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most sensitive points in the conflict, as around one-fifth of global oil supplies pass through the route. The latest tensions have weakened hopes for a permanent peace deal and pushed Brent crude prices higher to around US$78.80 per barrel.
Source : Newsmaker.id
