Iran renews attacks on Gulf states after another night of US strikes

Iran launched renewed attacks on US Gulf allies on Saturday, escalating a conflict that has seen seven straight nights of US strikes targeting Iranian military sites. The vital Strait of Hormuz, through which one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes, became a focal point for both sides.

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More than 50,000 American service members are operating across the Middle East and remain vigilant, lethal and ready.

The US military's Central Command stated its forces hit surveillance sites, military logistics infrastructure, underground weapons storage, and maritime capabilities. "More than 50,000 American service members are operating across the Middle East and remain vigilant, lethal and ready," the command said.

Iranian media reported that missiles struck power facilities and desalination pumps in the southern city of Jask, cutting off drinking water to local villages. The Revolutionary Guards claimed to have stopped four vessels violating shipping rules in the strait using a missile and drone operation. They also reported two oil tankers exploded and caught fire after passing through a mined route south of the strait, a claim the US military labeled as false.

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US forces employed fighter aircraft, aerial drones, and warships in addition to other assets.

Oil prices climbed more than 4% on Friday to their highest level in over a month, adding political pressure on President Donald Trump as his Republican Party seeks to retain power in upcoming congressional elections. The conflict has raised concerns about regional security, particularly with armed men seizing another vessel off Yemen, near another major oil shipping chokepoint.

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until US "aggression" comes to an end, it will not be possible to export chemical fertilisers or even a "single drop of oil and gas" from the region.