The ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran escalated as both countries launched missile attacks on Thursday. The situation showed no signs of immediate resolution as the strikes continued.
Iran struck a Chinese company’s building in northern Kuwait, causing significant damage and resulting in the death of a worker. This came shortly after Jordan intercepted five missiles launched from Iran. In response, the U.S. military carried out a series of strikes targeting Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps facilities, including military command centers, missile and drone sites, and coastal defense installations.
The U.S. strikes followed Iran’s earlier missile attack on a U.S. base in Jordan, prompting President Donald Trump to vow a strong response. Iran reported casualties from the attacks on Qeshm Island, while Jordan confirmed no casualties from its interception of missiles. Both Jordan and Kuwait host U.S. military bases.
In a separate incident, the U.S. collaborated with Saudi Arabia to target Iran-backed militias in Iraq, resulting in the deaths of fighters and Iranian advisers. Meanwhile, drone strikes caused fires on two gas vessels at the port of Damietta in Egypt, with unclear responsibility for the attacks. The conflict also involved Houthi rebels in Yemen denying involvement in the incidents.
The situation further escalated with Saudi Arabia facing renewed conflicts with the Houthis, who declared a blockade on Saudi shipping routes. The tension extended to attacks on Saudi Aramco’s oil-processing facility, with satellite imagery showing damage. Efforts to negotiate a temporary ceasefire and address issues such as maritime transit and Iran’s nuclear program faltered, leading to continued hostilities.
Concerns about dwindling weapon supplies and casualties in the conflict raised questions about the sustainability of the ongoing war. Public opinion on Trump’s handling of the situation varied, with a notable decrease in Republican approval from previous polls. Efforts to mediate and normalize the situation, particularly in the vital Strait of Hormuz, were ongoing amid the escalating tensions.