The United States launched a wave of strikes against Iran on Wednesday, following Iran's reimposition of a naval blockade. This marks a return to war between the two nations, nearly a month after they signed a memorandum of understanding towards ending the Middle East conflict that began in February.
Iran's Revolutionary Guards reported targeting the US Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, while the US military intercepted attacks against civilian targets. Jordan's armed forces also downed three missiles from Iran. US President Donald Trump warned of further strikes next week, including targeting power plants and bridges unless Iran returns to negotiations.
The resumption of hostilities centers on the dispute over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas flows. Iran blockaded the strait after the US and Israel launched a massive attack on February 28, using it as leverage. The US has since reimposed its own blockade of Iran's ports.
US Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the strikes were designed to degrade Iranian military capabilities used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian state media reported explosions in several port cities, including near Iran's only civilian nuclear plant in Bushehr.
Despite the escalation, mediated talks between the US and Iran have not formally ended. The conflict has caused anxiety in Kuwait, where locals fear the situation will worsen. Since the war began, Iran has asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz, firing on ships it deems unauthorized.
