The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Tuesday as Tehran launched attacks on American military assets in the Gulf, while Washington carried out its tenth consecutive day of airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure.
Read More: Iran renews attacks on Gulf states as US strikes continue
According to Iranian authorities, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted US radar installations, air defence systems, and administrative facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain. The Guards warned that the latest operation was only the beginning of “more decisive and powerful” waves of drone and missile attacks if the conflict continues.
The escalation followed a fresh round of US strikes overnight. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said its forces targeted Iranian military command centres, missile and drone launch sites, maritime capabilities, and air defence systems. Washington stated that the objective was to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Iran also claimed that two oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz were struck by explosions and brought to a standstill. Separately, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that projectiles hit tankers off the coast of Oman, highlighting growing risks to maritime traffic in the region.
US President Donald Trump warned that Iran would face severe consequences for attacks on American personnel, while Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the confrontation as a “full-scale war.” The Pentagon said nearly 100 US service members have been wounded since July 7, most suffering minor injuries.
Despite the military escalation, diplomatic efforts remain active. Iran confirmed that indirect communication with Washington through international mediators is continuing. Meanwhile, Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni arrived in Islamabad for meetings with Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership.
Read More: Pakistan resumes diplomacy amid escalating US-Iran war
The regional crisis widened further after Yemen’s Houthi movement announced a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, raising concerns over global energy supplies, international shipping, and the stability of oil markets as tensions across the Middle East continue to deepen.