US strikes Iran as Trump warns of escalation; Tehran hits back across region
The United States launched airstrikes early Wednesday targeting Iran, with U.S. President Donald Trump warning that further attacks were likely as tensions in the Middle East spiraled sharply.
The escalation comes amid renewed exchanges of fire between Iran, Israel, and U.S.-aligned regional allies, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
Trump said Iran would “pay the price” for stalled negotiations and reiterated that more military action could follow, signaling an increasingly hardline stance from Washington.
Iran responds with strikes across Gulf region
Hours before Trump’s comments, Iran reportedly launched attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan—countries that host U.S. military forces.
Air defense systems in Jordan intercepted incoming missiles, while Bahrain and Kuwait also confirmed they had engaged and blocked incoming fire.
Iran said the strikes were in response to U.S. military action and framed them as part of its right to self-defence.
U.S. targets radar and air defence sites
According to U.S. Central Command, American fighter jets struck air defence systems, surveillance radar installations, and ground control facilities inside Iran.
Tehran acknowledged impacts near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island but did not provide details on damage.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes as a violation of sovereignty and warned of further retaliation.
Regional spillover widens conflict
The fighting has also intensified along multiple fronts. Israel and Iran exchanged fire earlier in the week, while Israeli forces continued operations against Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon.
An airstrike east of Tyre reportedly killed at least six people, while additional strikes were reported in Sidon, according to Lebanese state media.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials said a missile strike damaged part of the Ramat David airbase, though no casualties were reported.
Diplomatic efforts continue amid rising tensions
Despite the escalation, diplomatic channels remain open. A delegation from Qatar reportedly arrived in Tehran for talks following consultations with Washington.
Iran has said it will reassess its position on negotiations following the latest strikes, while continuing to demand sanctions relief and protection of its nuclear programme.
The United States, however, insists Iran must curb its uranium enrichment activities, arguing it remains dangerously close to weapons-grade capability.
Global economic concerns grow as oil prices surge
The conflict has already begun to impact global markets, with crude oil prices rising sharply amid fears of supply disruption.
Analysts warn that prolonged instability—especially around the Strait of Hormuz—could further drive up energy costs worldwide.
Broader maritime tensions add to instability
Elsewhere, security incidents were reported in the Gulf of Aden after armed assailants attacked a cargo vessel off Oman.
Three Indian crew members remain missing, while 21 others were rescued, according to India’s foreign ministry. No group has claimed responsibility.
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