Regional tensions intensified as multiple strategic waterways faced disruption and military operations expanded across the Middle East. Two crude oil tankers carrying Saudi petroleum reversed course in the Red Sea following an announced blockade by Yemen’s Houthis, compounding existing challenges to international maritime commerce in the region.
The United States military concluded its 11th consecutive night of strikes against Iran, targeting military operations centers, maritime infrastructure, aircraft facilities, and logistics installations. American officials stated the campaign aimed to diminish Iran’s capacity to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, citing over 30 Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the preceding three months. Iranian state media reported strikes across multiple provinces including Khuzestan, Tabriz, Bushehr, Sistan and Baluchestan, Hamadan, Ilam, and Kurdistan.
In response, Iran’s military reported launching drone attacks against multiple US military installations across the Gulf region on Wednesday. According to Iranian statements, strikes targeted Camp Doha in Kuwait, Muwaffaq Salti Airbase in Jordan, and Isa Airbase in Bahrain. The US Department of Defense confirmed a third American soldier was killed in the Jordan airbase strike, bringing total US military casualties to 18 since military operations commenced on February 28.
US officials expressed openness to diplomatic resolution. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated Washington remained willing to engage, negotiate, and address differences with Iran if serious commitment existed from both sides. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth informed Congress the campaign had cost $37.5bn and requested an additional $67bn to replenish missile stockpiles depleted by ongoing operations.
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