US and Iran exchange missile strikes as Strait of Hormuz tensions escalate
The United States and Iran have traded fresh rounds of airstrikes and missile attacks, reigniting a conflict that threatens shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Both sides have vowed further retaliation, raising fears of a wider regional war.
What triggered the latest US strikes on Iran?
US Central Command announced it launched a new wave of strikes on Iranian targets near the Strait of Hormuz at approximately 7.30pm local time in Tehran. The military arm said the attacks were in response to what it described as recent attempted attacks by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) against commercial shipping in the waterway and US service members deployed to the region.
President Donald Trump later took to social media, claiming the strikes were also justified by an Iranian attempt to deploy sea mines in the shipping lane. He said the mines had been completely removed or detonated, and that no mines currently remain in the Strait.
What did President Trump say about Iran?
Trump also alleged that Iran had fired eight missiles at a US military base in Jordan, all of which were successfully intercepted. He issued a stark warning to Tehran, stating that any retaliation for the US strikes would be met with a much harder response.
If the failed nation of Iran retaliates for this very justified attack, they will be hit again at a much harder and higher level, Trump said. But it will not be the biggest attack of them all, that is waiting in the wings and, when it is over, there will be very little left of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
What damage has been reported in Iran?
Iranian state media reported missile attacks in the southwestern city of Ahvaz and the southern city of Sirik, one of the closest population centres to the Strait of Hormuz. Local reports suggest the strike on Sirik hit a wedding gathering, citing the Iranian arm of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Four people, including a child, are believed to have been killed, with more than 50 injured.
How has Iran responded to the US strikes?
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei promised to hit back at the US despite Trump's warning. In a post to X, he said the conflict had unforgettable lessons for the American enemy.
The IRGC announced it had launched missiles at a US military barracks in Jordan. Jordan's Security and Crisis Management Centre confirmed 10 of 13 missiles were intercepted, with the remaining three landing in remote areas far from population centres. No injuries or loss of life were recorded.
Iranian news agency Tasnim also reported drone strikes at the Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain, where US service members are stationed. The Iranian military said any further US attacks would be met with harsh and regrettable revenge.
What is the situation in the wider region?
The Kuwaiti Army confirmed it is currently confronting hostile missile and drone attacks following what it termed the sinful Iranian aggression. It warned locals that any explosions are the result of air defence systems intercepting hostile attacks, and urged citizens to follow security instructions from authorities.
Why does the Strait of Hormuz matter?
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, with roughly a fifth of global oil consumption passing through it daily. Any sustained disruption to shipping in the waterway would have significant implications for global energy markets and international trade.
The renewed hostilities come after a period of relative calm in the long-running standoff between Washington and Tehran, and will be closely watched by allies across the Indo-Pacific, including Australia, which relies heavily on stable sea lanes for its energy imports and export trade.
Frequently asked questions about the US-Iran conflict
What is the IRGC?
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is a branch of Iran's armed forces, established after the 1979 revolution. It operates its own ground, naval and air forces and has significant influence over Iran's political and economic affairs.
How many US troops are in the region?
The US maintains a significant military presence across the Middle East, including bases in Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait and Qatar, with tens of thousands of personnel deployed across the region.
What has been Australia's response?
The Australian government has not yet issued a formal statement on the latest escalation. Australia has historically supported US military operations in the region while calling for de-escalation and adherence to international maritime law.