Iran launched missiles and drones at several Gulf states hosting U.S. military forces Thursday after the United States carried out another wave of airstrikes against Iranian targets, marking the fifth straight day of renewed fighting between Washington and Tehran. Egypt condemned the attacks as a “grave escalation” and warned they threaten regional stability.
The latest exchange targeted American military facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, prompting Bahrain and Kuwait to activate their air defense systems. Both countries reported intercepting incoming Iranian projectiles.
Egypt denounces attacks on Arab states
Egypt’s Foreign Ministry sharply criticized Iran’s strikes, calling them a violation of the sovereignty and security of Arab nations.
In a statement, Cairo described the attacks as a “grave escalation” that undermines regional peace and stability, while urging all parties to avoid further military escalation and return to diplomacy.
Egypt has repeatedly sought to position itself as a voice for de-escalation throughout the widening U.S.-Iran conflict while maintaining close security ties with Gulf allies.
U.S. expands air campaign
The Iranian retaliation followed a fresh round of U.S. strikes against command centers, air defense systems, missile and drone facilities, and coastal surveillance sites, including targets near Bandar Abbas on the Strait of Hormuz.
U.S. Central Command said the operation was intended to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping after Tehran renewed attacks on vessels transiting the strategic waterway. U.S. forces also disabled a Curaçao-flagged tanker that officials said was attempting to violate the American naval blockade of Iran.
Separately, U.S. forces struck coastal defense and cruise missile positions on Greater Tunb Island, another strategic location overlooking the Strait of Hormuz.
Hormuz tensions continue
The renewed fighting comes as both countries continue battling over control of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints for oil exports.
Iran has maintained that the strait remains closed to unauthorized traffic, while the Trump administration insists commercial shipping will continue under U.S. naval protection despite the escalating confrontation. The uncertainty has contributed to higher global oil prices and renewed concerns about energy supplies.
Regional war fears grow
The latest missile exchanges have heightened concerns that the conflict could expand into a broader regional war involving additional U.S. allies.
Although diplomatic efforts continue through regional mediators, neither Washington nor Tehran has shown signs of backing away from military operations. U.S. officials have warned that additional strikes remain possible if Iran continues targeting commercial shipping or American interests, while Iranian leaders have threatened further attacks on regional military infrastructure.
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