Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated further, with both countries reporting military actions against each other for a second consecutive day. The exchanges of airstrikes and retaliatory operations have raised concerns about regional security, prompting several Gulf states to issue security alerts and increasing international concern over the situation.
According to reports, the United States carried out large-scale airstrikes early Thursday against multiple Iranian military and strategic sites. The operation reportedly involved Tomahawk missiles and fighter aircraft.
Explosions were reported in several Iranian locations, including Qeshm Island, Bandar Abbas, Minab and Sirik. Local media reported that air defense systems were activated in multiple areas following the strikes.
US President Donald Trump stated that Iran had been delaying negotiations related to a nuclear agreement, making the military action necessary. According to US Central Command, the objective of the strikes was to weaken Iran’s air defense capabilities, surveillance networks and communications systems.
Iran subsequently claimed to have launched retaliatory operations. According to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), US military facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain and other locations hosting American forces were targeted with missile and drone attacks.
Iran also claimed to have fired 12 ballistic missiles at Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan. Iranian media reported that infrastructure associated with US military aircraft was targeted. However, Jordan’s military partially rejected the claims, stating that several missiles were intercepted before reaching their targets and that no major damage had been confirmed.
The confrontation has also affected global energy markets. Following Iran’s reported announcement regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, international oil prices registered sharp gains.
Both Brent crude and WTI crude rose by more than 2%. The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes.
US Central Command rejected Iran’s claim regarding the closure of the waterway, stating that international maritime routes remain open and that monitoring efforts have been increased to ensure their security.
Security measures have been intensified across Gulf states amid the rising tensions. In Bahrain, air raid sirens were activated multiple times and residents were advised to move to safe locations.
Kuwait stated that reports had been received regarding missile and drone attacks within its territory, after which security agencies were placed on high alert. Military authorities said they were continuing defensive and response operations.
Local administrations urged residents to avoid rumors and rely only on official information.
Jordan’s military said it intercepted multiple missiles approaching its airspace. According to the military, debris fell in some areas, but no major damage or casualties were reported.
While Iran claimed that it had targeted a US air base in Jordan, Jordan has not fully accepted those claims.
Amid the escalating tensions, Russia called on both countries to exercise restraint, halt military actions and pursue diplomatic engagement.
Qatar has reportedly sent a delegation to Iran with the stated objective of reducing regional tensions and facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran.
Separately, reports emerged of a fire aboard an oil tanker following an attack near the coast of Oman. The vessel reportedly carried an international crew, including Indian nationals. Authorities confirmed one death and reported that several individuals remain missing. The incident has raised concerns about the security of maritime trade and energy supply routes.
Both sides have continued to make significant military claims. Iran has claimed attacks on 18 US facilities, while the United States has rejected those assertions. Similarly, claims of extensive damage inside Iran resulting from US strikes have circulated, but independent verification has not been possible.
