The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Sunday after both sides exchanged fresh waves of missile and drone attacks, with Tehran launching strikes on US-linked facilities across the Gulf and announcing another closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest escalation has cast fresh uncertainty over the interim US-Iran agreement signed last month, which aimed to reopen the vital shipping lane and pave the way for further negotiations to end the conflict.
Iran expanded its attacks beyond previous targets, striking Qatar for the first time since April, while the United Arab Emirates said its air defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles and drones. Bahrain, Jordan, Oman and Kuwait also reported attacks or missile interceptions, with Qatar confirming three people, including a child, were injured by falling debris.
The US military said it launched additional strikes against Iranian targets on Sunday to further reduce Tehran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. A US Central Command spokesperson said American forces also intercepted an Iranian cruise missile and a one-way attack drone.
Iranian authorities said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz had been suspended, with transit permits to resume only once stability returns. Tehran has sought to enforce a permit system for vessels using the strategic waterway, which previously handled around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
The disruption has already affected commercial shipping. India reported one of its nationals was missing after a container vessel was attacked off the coast of Oman, while Omani authorities rescued 23 crew members. Qatar also instructed all vessels, including fishing and leisure boats, to suspend maritime activities.
Despite Iran’s declaration, the US maintained that maritime traffic continued through alternative routes and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding freedom of navigation in the region.
