Tensions in the Middle East have escalated significantly, as Iran claims to have launched attacks on several Gulf states in response to the third round of US bombings carried out this week.
According to statements published by Iranian authorities, the targets of the attacks were Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Jordan. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates announced that air defense systems had intercepted Iranian missiles, while threats from drones were also reported.
The escalation of the situation comes after the United States accused Iran of attacking a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz, then carrying out another series of military strikes.
Iranian state media reported that explosions were heard in several port cities, including Bandar Abbas, Sirik, Chabahar, Bandar-e Deyr, Jask and Asaluyeh. In parallel, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that the Strait of Hormuz had been temporarily closed and that a warning shot had been fired at a ship that was attempting to pass without authorization.
Recent developments raise fears of an expansion of the conflict in the region, while the international community is following with concern the situation and the consequences it may have for global security and trade.
