US-Iran conflict escalates as fresh missile strikes threaten Middle East ceasefire
The United States launched new airstrikes against Iran, and Tehran responded by targeting US-allied countries, endangering a fragile ceasefire. At least 14 people were killed in the strikes, while Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was laid to rest in his hometown.
The United States carried out fresh airstrikes against Iran early Thursday, and Tehran retaliated by firing missiles at US-allied nations in the region, threatening an interim deal meant to end the Middle East war. Sirens sounded at least three times in Bahrain, home to the US Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters, with missiles also targeting Kuwait and Qatar. Sirens were heard in Jordan, where US troops are stationed. An Iranian official accused the US of striking near Iran's sole nuclear power plant at Bushehr, and explosions were reported elsewhere in the country. Early Friday, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was laid to rest in his hometown of Mashhad after days of public mourning. Khamenei was killed in the opening salvos of the war.
The US military's Central Command said it hit 90 targets across Iran, releasing footage of strikes on an airport runway and missile launchers. The US stated the strikes aimed to "further degrade" Iran's ability to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Health Ministry reported at least 14 killed and 78 wounded over two days, mostly military personnel. Kuwait said falling debris wounded one person as it shot down three ballistic missiles, a cruise missile, and 10 drones. Bahrain intercepted incoming fire, and Jordan said all Iranian fire was intercepted. Iranian state TV reported the Revolutionary Guard fired missiles at a US base in Jordan. No damage was reported in Qatar.
President Donald Trump said Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz ended the fragile ceasefire, warning of escalation. He renewed threats to hit Iran's civilian infrastructure and seize Kharg Island, through which 90% of Iranian oil exports pass. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf retorted, "If you strike, you’ll get hit." Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke with his Saudi, Turkish, and Omani counterparts and Pakistan's army chief, signaling efforts to de-escalate. Negotiations for a final deal were set to begin after Khamenei's funeral.
