The United States and Iran have escalated their military activities for the sixth day in a row, heightening fears of a potential broader regional conflict and putting a recently established interim peace agreement under significant pressure. The U.S. launched new attacks on targets near Tehran, also targeting a vessel approaching Iran’s Kharg Island, after accusing it of disregarding repeated warnings. In response, Iranian officials reported numerous casualties resulting from these strikes and condemned the U.S. actions.

Iran has retaliated by launching missiles and drones towards Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, all of which host U.S. military bases. Iraqi authorities noted an intercepted drone attack near Erbil, while operations at Basra’s oil loading facilities were temporarily halted after a drone struck a tanker, though it caused no significant damage. The tensions have further escalated near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, with Iran announcing its closure and warning of expanded military actions if the U.S. continues targeting Iranian infrastructure.

The heightened military conflict has already impacted international energy markets, causing oil prices to rise to approximately $85 per barrel as shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz decreases. Several nations, including India, have advised against sending merchant vessels and sailors through the area until the situation stabilizes. This development has raised concerns about broader disruptions to global shipping, particularly given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz in global energy supply.

Despite the escalating military tension, U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that Washington remains open to negotiating a settlement. However, Iranian leaders have maintained their stance against negotiating under military pressure, and efforts by regional mediators to ease tensions have so far been unsuccessful. Meanwhile, Iranian-backed groups in the area remain on high alert, as the possibility of further conflict looms.