Tensions between the United States and Iran rose sharply on Sunday when American forces carried out new strikes on Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz. The moves formed part of an ongoing exchange of attacks as Iran seeks greater influence over shipping in the waterway.
US officials confirmed strikes on Iranian missile systems, air defence positions and speedboats linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps at multiple points along the key passage.
Explosions were reported soon afterward in the southern Iranian port of Bandar Abbas. Officials said nearby Qeshm Island was also hit, with strikes limited to military facilities and no civilian deaths recorded. A maintenance worker was later reported killed and two others injured in Hormozgan province.
The conflict has focused increasingly on the Strait of Hormuz. Washington views Iranian efforts to control the route as a threat to global shipping, while Tehran has declared that vessels will not pass until stability returns. US forces stated that traffic continues and the waterway remains open.
Iran expanded operations by targeting sites linked to the United States in several Gulf countries, including facilities in Jordan, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar. Kuwait reported damage to border posts and an oil platform, with one worker injured. Qatar said falling debris wounded three people. Neighbouring states including the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Jordan reported intercepting missiles and drones.
The escalation has further weakened diplomatic efforts. A 60-day interim agreement between the two sides has effectively ended, though both have left room for future talks. Recent meetings involving Iranian and Omani officials on the strait have not yet produced results.
