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.