Iran Widens Gulf Attacks as US Launches Fresh Strikes

Fighting between the United States and Iran intensified over the weekend, with Tehran striking military sites across the Gulf and Washington launching new rounds of retaliatory strikes. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed attacks on U.S.-linked bases in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait, along with support facilities in Oman and Qatar. Six countries, including the UAE, reported coming under fire, marking a sharp widening in the scope of the conflict.

Strait of Hormuz Closed Again

The renewed violence followed attacks on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway that normally carries a fifth of the world’s oil. Iran said it shut the strait again after striking a container vessel, and a second ship was disabled the next day. Oman rescued 23 crew members from one of the vessels, while India reported one of its nationals missing.

Casualties and Market Reaction

Iranian officials said U.S. strikes killed one person at a water facility in Khuzestan province. Oil prices jumped more than 4% on the news, with Brent crude rising above $79 a barrel. U.S. Central Command said it struck Iranian air defenses, radar sites and drone capabilities, insisting Iran does not control the strait despite its closure claims.