The military confrontation between Iran and the United States intensified dramatically on Thursday, with both countries launching fresh attacks that raised fears of a wider regional conflict. Iran claimed responsibility for coordinated drone strikes on US military facilities in Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain, while the United States carried out a new round of airstrikes targeting nearly 90 Iranian military installations.

According to Iranian authorities, the operation targeted a Patriot missile defence system in Kuwait, an early warning satellite antenna in Qatar and fuel storage facilities used by US forces in Bahrain. Tehran described the attacks as a response to recent American military action and warned that retaliatory operations would continue if the US persisted with its campaign.

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American forces conducted extensive strikes for the second consecutive day. The operation reportedly focused on missile launch sites, drone storage facilities, air defence systems, military logistics hubs, surveillance infrastructure and naval assets linked to Iran's military capabilities. US officials said the objective was to reduce Iran's ability to threaten regional security and commercial shipping routes.

Casualties Reported

Iranian officials said at least three people were killed in Ahvaz during the latest US strikes. The country's Health Ministry later reported that the renewed attacks had left at least 14 people dead and 78 others injured across five provinces. Independent verification of the casualty figures remains unavailable.

Iran Vows More Retaliation

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said its drone operation targeted several US-linked military facilities across the Gulf. Iranian military officials maintained that the country would continue responding to what they described as violations of its sovereignty.

Authorities in Bahrain and Kuwait confirmed that their air defence systems intercepted incoming drones and missiles. Bahrain activated air raid sirens and advised residents to seek shelter, while Kuwait also issued emergency alerts after detecting aerial threats.

Trump Warns Iran

US President Donald Trump said Iran had indicated an interest in negotiations but questioned whether Tehran could be trusted to honour any future agreement. He warned that any further attacks on American personnel or interests would invite a stronger military response.

Speaking after the NATO summit, Trump said the United States remained prepared to defend its forces while keeping diplomatic options open if conditions permitted.

Global Energy Markets Under Pressure

The latest escalation has renewed concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's busiest oil shipping routes. Several commercial vessels reportedly altered their routes or delayed transit through the strategic waterway due to rising security risks.

Reports also indicated that an Indian-flagged crude oil tanker carrying nearly two million barrels of oil reversed course before entering the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil prices moved higher as traders reacted to fears of supply disruptions.

Regional Impact Widens

Iran also reported damage to railway infrastructure connecting Tehran and Mashhad, resulting in the suspension of passenger train services. Tehran accused Washington of targeting civilian infrastructure, an allegation that the United States has not officially addressed.

International maritime agencies have expressed concern over thousands of seafarers stranded around the Strait of Hormuz as shipping companies reassess security conditions in the Gulf.

With both sides continuing military operations and issuing increasingly strong warnings, diplomatic efforts to prevent a broader regional conflict face growing challenges. Analysts caution that any further escalation could have significant consequences for global energy markets, international trade and stability across West Asia.

Trump Warns of 'Project Freedom Plus' as Iran Slams US Strikes

Iran's Araghchi accuses US of ‘reckless military adventure’ amid fresh Hormuz clashes

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz spiked Friday as US forces struck Iranian military targets following attacks on American warships, prompting sharp accusations from Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi labeled the US actions a "reckless military adventure," claiming they targeted civilian areas near Chabahar port and oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. President Donald Trump, speaking at the White House, warned that failed nuclear talks could trigger "Project Freedom Plus," an expanded escort mission for stranded commercial vessels in the strait.

Araghchi's Fiery Rebuke

Araghchi's comments came late Thursday, after US Central Command reported Iranian missiles, drones, and small boats targeting US destroyers near the strait. "The US chooses reckless military adventure whenever diplomacy is within reach," he said, according to Iranian state media. Tehran countered with strikes on US ships, while denying any breach of the fragile ceasefire holding for over a month.

Sources familiar with the matter said the exchanges began early Friday morning local time, with US airstrikes hitting coastal bases by dawn. No US casualties were reported, but Iran alleged hits on non-military sites, escalating rhetoric ahead of weekend talks.

Trump Hints at Escalation

Trump told reporters before heading to his Virginia golf course that without a deal, Washington would revive the earlier "Project Freedom" initiative—paused amid negotiations—but beefed up. "It'll be Project Freedom plus other things," he added, stressing protection for global shipping routes vital for 20% of world oil. The strait remains a flashpoint, with commercial traffic disrupted since clashes began two months ago.

Oil Markets React

Brent crude jumped as much as 3% during Friday trading amid the flare-up, settling at $101.29 a barrel, up 1.23%. West Texas Intermediate closed at $95.42, up 0.64%, paring gains on hopes for an imminent US-Iran agreement. Traders watched closely, with prices volatile since the ceasefire took hold in April.

An oil spill off Iran's Kharg Island export terminal—spotted Tuesday via satellite—added uncertainty, though the Pentagon declined comment amid reports of Thursday strikes.

Iran's Satirical Jabs

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei mocked Trump's prior nuclear threat of "one big glow" from Iran if talks collapse. "Absurd... they seek peace yet propose a big flash," he posted on X, sharing a clip from the 1964 satire Dr. Strangelove.[query context] The taunt, repeated across outlets, underscores Tehran's defiance.

Regional Ripples

UAE defenses intercepted two Iranian ballistic missiles and three drones Friday, with three injuries reported but no official Iranian response.[query context] In southern Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed at least 31, including a rescue worker, per state media; Hezbollah claimed 26 counterattacks.

US-mediated Israel-Lebanon peace talks are set for May 14-15 in Washington, focusing on borders, Hezbollah disarmament, and aid—despite ongoing fire.

Path Ahead Uncertain

With oil prices elevated and shipping at risk, diplomats push for a deal before Monday. Trump reiterated no nuclear weapons for Iran, while Araghchi vowed resistance to pressure. Markets and mariners await clarity from the Hormuz strait.