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Military tensions between Iran and the United States intensified on Sunday after both sides exchanged new attacks across the Gulf region, further raising concerns about the security of the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.
Iranian authorities reported that several locations on the southern islands of Qeshm and Farur were struck during the latest round of hostilities. According to state media, the attacks resulted in casualties, including the death of a telecommunications worker and injuries to others.
At nearly the same time, Kuwait announced that multiple northern border posts were damaged during an attack, while an offshore oil drilling platform was also targeted by what officials described as a hostile drone. One person was reported injured.
The latest developments follow another day of military exchanges between Tehran and Washington. Earlier on Sunday, Iran claimed responsibility for targeting two commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including one that caught fire and forced its crew to abandon the ship.
Following the incident, Iran's Revolutionary Guards declared that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until what they described as the end of U.S. military intervention in the region. The statement added to growing uncertainty surrounding one of the world's busiest energy corridors.
The U.S. military rejected Iran's claim, stating that international shipping through the strait remains open. U.S. Central Command said its forces are positioned to protect freedom of navigation and ensure that commercial vessels can continue lawful transit through the waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz carries a significant portion of the world's oil exports, making any disruption a major concern for global energy markets and international trade.
U.S. officials said American forces conducted strikes against numerous military-related targets following the attacks on shipping. Iranian media later reported explosions in several southern cities and provinces, including Bandar Abbas, Sirik, Jask, Qeshm Island, and parts of Khuzestan Province.
President Donald Trump said the United States had carried out powerful military operations overnight, adding that negotiations had been making progress before the latest attacks on commercial shipping disrupted diplomatic efforts.
As the conflict widened, reports of explosions and air defense activity emerged in Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. Kuwait said it was working to intercept incoming threats, while Jordan reported that several Iranian missiles landed inside its territory.
Oman also became involved after Iranian strikes reportedly reached areas connected to the country. Omani officials summoned Iran's ambassador to deliver a formal diplomatic protest, an unusual step for the Gulf nation, which has often acted as a mediator between Tehran and Washington.
Meanwhile, maritime authorities continued rescue operations after a Cyprus-flagged container ship was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. Officials confirmed that crew members abandoned the vessel after it caught fire, while one sailor was reported missing.
International leaders renewed calls for restraint as fears grew that the conflict could spread further across the Middle East. Pakistan urged both sides to return to diplomacy, emphasizing that dialogue remains the only sustainable path toward regional stability.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres also appealed for an immediate end to the violence, warning that continued military escalation could threaten international peace and security.
The situation remains highly fluid as governments across the region monitor developments and global markets closely watch the future of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
