Iran Expands Missile and Drone Attacks to Gulf States Amid US Strikes and Hormuz Tensions

Tensions in the Gulf escalated as Iran responded to a new wave of US military strikes on southern Iranian targets by launching missiles and drones at American facilities across several Gulf countries. The attacks, occurring overnight between Sunday and Monday, targeted US installations in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait. Qatar, which had not been attacked since April and serves as a mediator in ceasefire talks, was hit for the first time in months.

The US Central Command announced the fresh strikes aimed at degrading Iran's ability to threaten civilian and commercial vessels passing freely through the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, Iran declared the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, citing US military activity in the area, though Washington denied the closure and affirmed that maritime traffic continues uninterrupted.

The UAE reported its air defense systems intercepted Iranian missiles and drones, while Bahrain, Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait also confirmed attacks or interceptions on their territories. Iran's Foreign Ministry condemned the US strikes as "aggressive" and accused American pressure of undermining recent talks in Muscat between Iran and Oman to regulate navigation through the strait.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf posted a warning on social media, stating, "The era of one-sided agreements is over. We told you: fulfill your commitments or pay the price. Reality is knocking at the door." The unfolding conflict highlights the deepening confrontation between the US and Iran, with Gulf states increasingly drawn into the hostilities.

The situation remains volatile as both sides continue military actions and diplomatic efforts to manage the crisis around the vital maritime chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz.