US-Iran Truce Nears Collapse as Both Sides Exchange Strikes Near Hormuz

The US military launched a series of strikes against Iran on Wednesday, marking the heaviest exchange since late last month, after Iran attacked three commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command said it hit more than 80 targets, including air defense systems, command networks, coastal radar sites, and over 60 Revolutionary Guard boats near the strait, calling Iran’s actions a clear violation of the ceasefire.

Iran Strikes Back at US Bases in Bahrain and Kuwait

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said it targeted 85 US military sites, including Bahrain’s Fifth Naval District and Ali Al Salem Air Base in Kuwait, using missiles and drones. It also claimed to have shot down a US MQ9 drone. Sirens sounded in both Bahrain and Kuwait, though no confirmed casualties have been reported.

Iran Vows “Crushing Response”

Iran’s top military command called the US strikes a blatant act of aggression and warned it would not allow US interference in managing the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s parliament speaker accused Washington of violating last month’s memorandum of understanding, writing on social media that Iran would not back down.

Oil Prices Climb on Renewed Tensions

Brent crude rose nearly 2% to $75.54 a barrel following the strikes. Analysts noted the flare-up highlights how fragile passage through Hormuz remains, with sustained disruption potentially tightening global oil supply further. Reports also emerged of explosions near Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub responsible for roughly 90% of its crude shipments, though no confirmed damage to oil infrastructure has been reported.

Peace Talks Left in Limbo

The exchange comes weeks after the US and Iran reached a preliminary agreement to halt hostilities. Trump said Monday he would either finalize a deal or “finish the job,” while Iran’s foreign minister said talks would not resume unless US threats stopped.