US Strikes Iran for 12th Night; Kuwait Reports Drone Attack Amid Escalating Tensions

The United States has conducted a new series of airstrikes against Iran, aiming to degrade the nation's ability to threaten maritime traffic. The strikes, which began Wednesday evening Eastern Time, targeted areas in southern Iran, including near the cities of Bushehr, Ahvaz, and Sirik. A separate U.S. strike on the Saloman border crossing between Iran and Iraq reportedly killed two people.

In response to the U.S. actions, Kuwait reported an Iranian drone attack. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced a fire on one of three oil tankers attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, attributing it to an explosion and claiming the tankers were using an "illegal" southern route. The Guard did not specify the vessels' names or the exact location and time of the incident.

“

Our defense doctrine is clear: eye for an eye.

This escalation marks the twelfth consecutive night of attacks between the two nations. U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to destroy Iranian infrastructure for any attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi responded on social media, stating that Iran's defense doctrine is "eye for an eye" and that any aggression against Iran's infrastructure would elicit a strong response, with contributors to such aggression also considered legitimate targets.

The conflict, which intensified in recent months after a period of reduced hostilities, centers partly on control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for oil and gas transport. The U.S. military reported forcing nine commercial ships to alter course and disabling one during a naval blockade this month, with approximately 50,000 U.S. troops currently deployed in the Middle East.

“

As soon as aggression against Iran also hits our infrastructure, it will necessitate a strong and decisive response. Those who contribute to such aggression in any way will also be considered legitimate targets.