Iran has launched missile and drone attacks against US positions in the Middle East after fresh American strikes on Iranian targets. The latest exchange has sharply increased fears of a wider regional conflict. Meanwhile, tensions around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz have also intensified.
Iranian authorities said their forces targeted American military positions in Jordan. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that a US Marine base was hit during the operation. Iranian officials also reported damage to military facilities and American assault helicopters.
Earlier, Iranian military authorities warned Washington that further attacks would bring a stronger response. The General Staff said Iran would impose heavy costs on the United States if American strikes continued.
At the same time, the United States confirmed that its forces had launched attacks against IRGC targets in Iran. US President Donald Trump said American forces were striking Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump also warned Tehran against retaliation, saying that any further Iranian attack would face a stronger American response.
Strait of Hormuz faces growing security concerns
The military escalation has also affected shipping activity around the Strait of Hormuz. Two oil tankers carrying Saudi crude were reportedly struck by unknown projectiles while leaving the waterway near Oman.
Authorities said the crews remained safe, while investigations into the incidents continued. The attacks have raised fresh concerns about energy supplies because the strait remains a major route for global oil shipments.
European officials have urged all sides to protect freedom of navigation. However, diplomatic efforts to ease tensions have so far failed to produce a breakthrough.
Meanwhile, Iran has continued defending its position on negotiations with Washington. Tehran says diplomacy remains possible if the United States returns to its commitments under an earlier memorandum of understanding.
Iranian officials have also rejected claims that sanctions have pushed the country’s economy toward collapse. The central bank said Iran still holds sufficient foreign currency and can support the domestic market.
As military tensions continue, concerns are growing over further attacks, shipping disruptions and economic pressure. The situation around Iran and the Strait of Hormuz remains highly volatile, with diplomatic efforts facing increasing challenges.
