The United States launched a new wave of airstrikes on Iran early Thursday, marking the second round of attacks in less than 24 hours despite President Donald Trump previously announcing a ceasefire.
Trump described the latest military action as “retribution,” signaling a renewed escalation in the conflict after Iranian attacks on U.S. allies in the Gulf.
Iran Reports Casualties After Overnight Strikes
Iran’s Health Ministry said the latest U.S. strikes killed at least 14 people and injured 78 others, with dozens of those wounded still receiving hospital treatment.
Iranian state media reported explosions in several locations, including areas near Bushehr, home to the country’s nuclear power facilities, as well as the southern ports of Bandar Abbas, Chabahar, Konarak and Sirik.
Bahrain Says It Intercepted Iranian Attacks
Meanwhile, Bahrain’s military said its air defense systems intercepted multiple Iranian aerial attacks aimed at the kingdom during the night. Authorities urged residents to avoid any debris left behind by intercepted projectiles and report suspicious objects to officials.
Air-raid sirens sounded repeatedly in the capital, Manama, where the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet is based, highlighting growing concerns that the conflict could spread further across the Gulf.
Regional Tensions Continue to Rise
The latest exchange comes after Iran launched attacks targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, further straining efforts to preserve an interim agreement that had briefly raised hopes of de-escalation.
With both Washington and Tehran continuing military operations, uncertainty remains over whether diplomacy can prevent the conflict from expanding. Analysts warn that continued strikes could have significant consequences for regional security, global energy markets, and international shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
