Iran closes Strait of Hormuz after US strikes, Kuwait reports aerial attacks

Tensions flared in the Middle East as Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz "until further notice." The announcement followed warning shots fired at a ship allegedly taking an "unauthorized route." The Guard stated the vessel was "hit by warning shots and stopped."

In response to what it described as "illegal intervention by foreigners," Iran declared the strait would remain closed. They threatened to target US bases in the Gulf region if American interventions continued. This move significantly disrupts global oil transport, as the Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for maritime traffic.

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Until further notice and until the end of American interventions in this region; no ship will be allowed to cross it.

The escalating conflict saw the US military report striking approximately 140 targets within Iran. This action was described as retaliation for earlier attacks. Meanwhile, Kuwait's armed forces announced they were responding to aerial attacks, indicating a widening regional conflict. The Kuwaiti military stated that audible explosions were the result of their air defense systems intercepting hostile attacks.

Earlier discussions between Iran and Oman aimed to address maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. A spokesperson for Iran's foreign ministry indicated that both countries agreed to continue talks to achieve a "common understanding" on ensuring navigation safety. A Qatari delegation also participated in parts of these discussions, highlighting regional efforts to manage the volatile situation.

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The general staff of the army specifies that the sounds of explosions heard are due to the intervention of air defense systems intercepting hostile attacks.