U.S. Launches Major Strikes on Iran After Strait of Hormuz Ship Attacks; Tehran Retaliates Against Bahrain and Kuwait

DUBAI: The United States launched a fresh wave of military strikes against Iran on Wednesday, targeting more than 80 military sites after Washington accused Tehran of attacking three commercial vessels in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions.

According to U.S. Central Command, the operation targeted Iranian air defense systems, command and control facilities, coastal radar installations, anti-ship missile sites, and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps naval assets in an effort to reduce Iran’s capability to threaten international maritime traffic.

In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks toward Bahrain and Kuwait, both of which host U.S. military installations. Authorities in the two Gulf states activated air defense systems and issued emergency alerts as they sought to intercept incoming projectiles.

The renewed hostilities have placed a fragile ceasefire under severe strain and raised fresh concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes through which a significant share of global oil supplies passes.

Washington also announced the revocation of Iran’s authorization to sell oil on international markets, reinstating economic pressure on Tehran. Iranian officials condemned the U.S. military action and the renewed sanctions, accusing Washington of violating previous understandings aimed at reducing tensions and restoring stability in the region.

The latest developments come amid heightened regional uncertainty and have triggered renewed concerns in global energy markets over potential disruptions to oil supplies and commercial shipping through the Gulf.

International observers have urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation, warning that continued military confrontation could have far-reaching consequences for regional security and the global economy.