Iran Launches Missile, Drone Attacks on US Bases Across Gulf Following Fresh American Strikes

DUBAI: Iran launched a new wave of missile and drone attacks targeting U.S. military facilities across several Gulf countries on Monday after the United States carried out fresh strikes on Iranian military positions, marking a sharp escalation in the conflict between the two countries.

According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), American forces struck Iranian air defence systems, missile launch sites, drone facilities and naval assets in an effort to reduce Tehran’s ability to threaten international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The operation began on Sunday evening in Washington and was described as part of efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway.

Iran responded by launching coordinated missile and drone attacks against U.S.-linked military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan and Qatar. Air raid sirens were activated in Bahrain, while several Gulf states reported intercepting incoming projectiles. Iranian officials also warned that further “incidents” could occur in the Strait of Hormuz and reiterated Tehran’s demand that vessels obtain its authorization to transit the waterway.

The escalating confrontation has heightened concerns over global energy security, as the Strait of Hormuz carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The latest hostilities have already driven oil prices higher and raised fears of prolonged disruptions to international trade and energy markets.

Despite the intensifying military exchanges, diplomatic efforts by regional mediators, including Qatar and Pakistan, continue in an attempt to prevent a broader regional conflict. However, with both Washington and Tehran adopting increasingly hardline positions, prospects for an immediate de-escalation remain uncertain.