Tehran warns it will leave no attack 'unanswered' as crude prices climb and Gulf nations activate air defences

US forces carried out strikes against Iran on Wednesday in what President Donald Trump said was retaliation for the downing of an American Apache helicopter by the Islamic Republic a day earlier. Iranian media reported at least two series of explosions along Iran's southern coast near the Strait of Hormuz, with US forces targeting several Iranian air defence systems and radar systems around the strategic waterway, according to Axios.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards strike back

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it attacked the United States Fifth Fleet in Bahrain with drones, and an airbase in Jordan with missiles in response to the US strikes on southern Iran earlier, state media reported. The IRGC's Aerospace Force claimed its long-range, solid-fuel missiles hit and destroyed four critical targets at the Jordanian base, including F-35 fighter jet hangars and a primary command and control centre in Al-Azraq.

Tehran warns of further retaliation

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the US had chosen to "test our determination" and the Iranian armed forces would "leave no attack or threat unanswered". In a sharp message to Washington, he added: "Leave our region if you want to be safe." The foreign ministry also said Gulf nations bore a "legal and moral responsibility" to prevent US and Israeli forces from using their territory or facilities for hostile actions against Iran.

Regional air defences activated

The escalating confrontation triggered air defence responses across the Gulf. Bahrain's interior ministry issued an air raid alert, urging people "to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place". Kuwait's military said its air defences were engaging "hostile aerial targets" in accordance with established operational procedures, though officials did not specify their origin. The Jordanian military confirmed it shot down five missiles launched from Iran as the tit-for-tat strikes unfolded.

Oil markets react to conflict

Crude oil prices climbed about one percent, rebounding from a seven-week low as markets absorbed the news of fresh US military strikes against Iran. Brent crude futures gained 83 cents to reach $92.29 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate increased by 68 cents to settle at $88.97. The price rally was further fuelled by market data revealing a substantial decline in US crude inventories.

Hezbollah joins fray from Lebanon

In a related development, Hezbollah claimed it launched 14 separate attacks on Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. According to statements detailing operations from Monday night through Tuesday, the group said its forces repeatedly targeted gatherings of Israeli soldiers and armour in the Lebanese towns of Biyyada, Rachaf, al-Qawzah, and Qantara using drones, missiles, and rockets.

The US military's Central Command said it had "completed self-defence strikes against Iran", describing the attacks as a proportional response to the downing of the Apache helicopter and recent attacks on US forces and international commercial ships transiting regional waters. Iranian media reported that strikes in Sirik's Bemani district destroyed two water tanks and damaged a telecommunications tower on Qeshm Island.

US-Iran Clashes Flare in Strait of Hormuz, Trump Insists Ceasefire Holds

Vessels ablaze, oil prices spike as attacks test fragile truce amid stranded ships and global fears

Multiple vessels caught fire near the Strait of Hormuz on Friday after fresh US-Iran clashes, even as President Donald Trump insisted the ceasefire remains "in effect." NASA's FIRMS satellite detected fire activity across several spots following missile and drone exchanges, with UAE air defences activated amid blasts off Abu Dhabi coast. The incidents, unfolding just hours apart, have stranded nearly 1,500 ships and pushed Brent crude above $101 a barrel.

Vessels Ablaze Off Hormuz

Reports emerged around 12:22 PM IST of vessels burning near the strategic waterway, a chokepoint for 20% of global oil. Initial satellite imagery showed flames at multiple locations, linked to overnight attacks between US warships and Iranian assets. US Central Command confirmed Thursday's retaliatory airstrikes hit Iranian missile sites, drone launch pads, and command centres after three American destroyers faced "provocative attacks" while transiting the strait.

No casualties were reported from the US side. Trump, posting on Truth Social, described the destroyers as unscathed, with Iranian drones falling "like a butterfly dropping to its grave." He called the strikes a mere "love tap," but warned of "a lot more violent" responses if no deal comes fast.

UAE on High Alert

The UAE scrambled air defences Friday morning as explosions echoed off Abu Dhabi, where US assets are based. The defence ministry's Arabic statement on X noted "ongoing engaging operations of missiles and UAVs," with sounds ringing across the country. Authorities urged vigilance but reported no direct hits on mainland soil. Separately, UAE firm Gulf Marine Services logged a 24% Q1 profit drop to $19.5 million, blaming vessel evacuations from a GCC nation in March amid the war.

Local sources said the nation is compiling a record of Iranian attacks for future legal action, via a new national committee.

Trump: Ceasefire Intact, Deal Possible

Trump doubled down on the truce holding, despite Iran's top command accusing the US of violating it by hitting an oil tanker and civilian areas. "The ceasefire is going. It's in effect," he told US media, framing strikes as defensive. He dismissed talk of a "one-page offer" to Tehran, calling it broader—demanding no nuclear weapons and handover of "nuclear dust."

Sources familiar with the matter point to backchannel talks via Pakistan for a 30-day halt to hostilities, keeping Hormuz open while permanent negotiations run. Trump signalled willingness to negotiate, but only if Iran acts quickly.

Stranded Ships, Sailor Fears

The UN's IMO estimates 1,500 vessels stuck in the region, crippling oil and gas chains. Food shortages worsen in places like Somalia. Indian sailors aboard a cargo ship in Iran's Shatt al-Arab waterway spoke of terror to Al Jazeera: "We've seen war, missiles, everything. We're mentally exhausted." Stuck for 10 weeks over unpaid wages, they survive on potatoes, onions and bread; some escaped via Iran-Armenia border, but 20,000 sailors region-wide remain trapped.

Pakistan seeks repatriation of 11 Pakistani and 20 Iranian crew from US-seized vessels, coordinating with mediators.

Oil Surge, Wider Fallout

Brent crude jumped 7.5% Thursday to $103.70 before easing to $101.12 by Friday Asia open—up 40% since the war's oil shortfall hit 14.5 million barrels daily. One tanker reached South Korea after dodging the blockade, first since Iran shut the strait in late February.

Japan's MOL confirmed its ships crossed without Tehran's proposed fees, via stakeholder coordination; two India-flagged LPG carriers followed suit.

Regional Tensions Spill Over

Iran's VP Mohammad Reza Aref claimed a "great victory" soon, with sanctions lifted, per state media. Meanwhile, Israel-Hezbollah fighting reignited: IDF killed Hezbollah's Radwan unit commander in Beirut, ordered Lebanese evacuations, and shelled south Lebanon sites. A Lebanese civil defence member died in an airstrike.

UN drama brews too—Russia and China poised to veto a US-Bahrain resolution on Hormuz freedom; Iran slammed it as "one-sided."

Sanctions and Standoff

US hit new sanctions on Iraq's deputy oil minister and Iran-linked firms for oil trades aiding proxies. As ships idle and prices climb, eyes turn to talks. Will the 30-day proposal break the deadlock, or fuel more fire in Hormuz?

US–Iran tensions have sharply escalated after US President Donald Trump заявил that the naval blockade on Iranian ports will remain in place until Tehran agrees to a deal. The statement comes just days before a temporary ceasefire between the two sides is set to expire, raising concerns of renewed hostilities.

The latest developments mark a critical phase in the ongoing standoff, with both nations adopting hardened positions. The situation remains fluid and is being closely tracked as part of the latest news today across global diplomatic and security circles.

Trump’s position

Trump said the blockade, imposed roughly a week ago, has significantly disrupted Iran’s economy and maritime operations. In a social media post, he claimed that the US holds a strong advantage in the current situation and would not ease pressure without a formal agreement.

According to officials, Washington views the blockade as a strategic tool to compel Tehran into negotiations on terms favourable to the US.

Iran’s response

Iran responded strongly, with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf stating that Tehran would not bow to threats or pressure tactics. He accused the US of attempting to manipulate negotiations by violating ceasefire norms and escalating tensions.

Ghalibaf indicated that Iran has strengthened its military preparedness over the past two weeks and is ready to respond if conflict resumes. His remarks reflect a firm stance that aligns with broader government updates emerging from Tehran.

Ceasefire deadline nears

The temporary ceasefire between the US and Iran is set to expire on Wednesday evening (US time). Trump has indicated that there is little chance of extending it if no agreement is reached before the deadline.

Sources suggest that both sides are preparing for multiple scenarios, including a breakdown of talks and possible military escalation. The approaching deadline has intensified diplomatic activity, making this a key international news development.

Talks in Pakistan

Amid rising tensions, an Iranian delegation is expected to travel to Islamabad for potential negotiations with US representatives. Reports indicate that the talks could mark a second round of dialogue, although Iran’s foreign ministry earlier denied any formal plans.

Iran has reportedly set conditions for participation, including the presence of US Vice President JD Vance. Senior US officials, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, may also join the discussions.

Strait activity slows

Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed significantly. Data shows that only 16 vessels passed through the strategic route on Monday, reflecting the impact of the blockade and heightened security concerns.

The US has also seized an Iranian-linked vessel attempting to transit the strait, further escalating tensions. Iran has warned of consequences, signalling that the maritime front could become a flashpoint.

Regional implications

The developments come amid broader instability in the Middle East, including ongoing ceasefire talks between Israel and Lebanon. Analysts say that any escalation between the US and Iran could have ripple effects across the region, affecting energy markets and global trade. This remains a high-impact public interest story, with implications for international security, oil prices, and diplomatic relations.

What lies ahead

With the ceasefire deadline approaching and negotiations uncertain, the coming days will be crucial. Diplomatic efforts in Pakistan may offer a narrow window for de-escalation, but both sides appear prepared for confrontation.

US War Secretary to Address Press at 6:30 PM Amid Hormuz Blockade

Navy Reports Zero Crossings Since Monday

The United States Secretary of War will brief the media at 6:30 pm Indian Standard Time, even as the US Central Command claims a complete halt to maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz for the third consecutive day.

Officials confirmed that 10 vessels attempting to leave Iranian ports have been turned back since the blockade began on Monday. No ship has crossed the strategic waterway since, according to a statement issued by CENTCOM earlier today.

Pentagon Media Briefing

The defence secretary, along with the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, will face reporters at 8:00 am Eastern Time. The Department of War announced the news conference on social media platform X.

Observers expect tough questions regarding the deployment of naval assets and the economic cost of the ongoing West Asia war. A White House official admitted to Congress that the administration is still calculating the financial impact.

Iranian Warning Over Sea Routes

Tehran has responded with a sharp warning. Iranian leader Mohsen Rezaee stated that Iran will not leave the Strait of Hormuz until its maritime and economic rights are fully protected.

Earlier, Iranian officials had threatened to shut three vital oil supply routes if the US continued its blockade. These include the Red Sea, the Sea of Oman, and the Persian Gulf.

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir, has arrived in Tehran for crucial meetings with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey are currently acting as mediators between the two sides.

Simultaneously, US Vice President JD Vance is leading a negotiating team that includes Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. They are currently sharing draft proposals with international partners.

Trump Announces Israel-Lebanon Talks

In a post on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump confirmed that a meeting between Iranian and Lebanese officials will take place tomorrow. He stated he was trying to create "breathing room" between Israel and Lebanon.

The president noted that the two leaderships have not spoken directly for nearly 34 years. The announcement comes amid heavy shelling reported in southern Lebanon, where Hezbollah claimed 34 military strikes in the last 24 hours.

Senate Vote Fails Again

A resolution aimed at limiting President Trump’s authority to wage war against Iran failed in the US Senate on Thursday. This marks the fourth time such a measure has been blocked by lawmakers.

According to a BBC report quoting Democratic party sources, opposition leaders plan to introduce similar measures every week, regardless of the outcome.

Impact on Global Supply Chains

The crisis continues to disrupt global trade. Australia has underwritten diesel shipments from Brunei and South Korea to manage price inflation. The United Kingdom faces potential food shortages of chicken and pork by summer if the blockade persists.

Meanwhile, China has formally urged Iran to restore normal navigation through the strait. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Iranian counterpart that reopening the waterway is a unanimous international demand. As this English News Portal India reported earlier, the situation remains fluid with no immediate end to the India News Update on the horizon.