US-Iran Conflict Escalates as Hormuz Tensions Disrupt Global Oil Shipping

The United States and Iran intensified military attacks on Thursday, extending a week-long escalation that has largely undone last month's truce and renewed concerns over regional stability, global energy supplies, and maritime security in the Middle East.

The U.S. military confirmed it carried out a sixth consecutive night of strikes targeting Iranian military assets, including attacks near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island along the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic region hosts Iran’s largest port, key naval facilities, and Revolutionary Guards bases. Iranian media also reported strikes on bridges, a railway station in Bandar Khamir, and Iranshahr Airport, although Reuters could not independently verify those claims.

Iran responded by launching missiles and drones at U.S. military installations in neighboring countries, including a major air base in Jordan that Tehran claims was involved in a recent strike on an Iranian children's cancer hospital.

The renewed fighting has also sparked a dispute over President Donald Trump's statement that a U.S. citizen had been released by Iran as a goodwill gesture. While Trump identified the individual as Dena Karari, Iran's judiciary denied that any American prisoner had been released or exchanged.

The conflict has once again disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil and gas transit routes, driving higher global energy prices. Iran has resumed restrictions in the waterway while the United States has reinforced its blockade of Iranian ports. Tehran has also warned it could encourage Yemen's Houthi forces to threaten the Bab al-Mandeb Strait if U.S. attacks continue.

Despite the growing military confrontation, the White House said Trump remains open to diplomacy while insisting Iran would face consequences for actions affecting international shipping. Iranian officials, meanwhile, continue to argue that U.S. airstrikes cannot weaken Tehran's control over the Strait of Hormuz and maintain they retain the ability to disrupt maritime traffic.

Analysts say both sides have effectively returned to pre-truce conditions, raising fears that the conflict could expand further unless renewed diplomatic negotiations resume.