US airstrikes on Iran as Trump warns of further action amid regional retaliation

The United States launched airstrikes on Iranian military sites, with President Donald Trump warning that further attacks could follow. Iran responded by firing on Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, all of which host US troops. The renewed exchanges risk undermining ceasefire efforts and complicating negotiations to end the conflict.

The United States carried out airstrikes against Iran on Wednesday, as President Donald Trump signalled more attacks. Iran responded by firing at regional countries that host US troops. The renewed fighting put talks to end the war at risk. Trump warned Tehran would face consequences if negotiations did not move forward.

Iran later claimed it launched attacks in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan. Jordan said it shot down five incoming missiles. Iran said the target was an air base hosting American military aircraft. Petra, Jordan’s state agency, reported no injuries. Bahrain and Kuwait said they intercepted incoming fire, but gave no details.

United States airstrikes on Iran and Trump warnings

Trump spoke at the White House after the US said it hit Iranian military sites. "Were going to hit them again hard today,\" Trump told reporters. Trump also pushed Iran to agree to a deal to end the war. Trump did not say if earlier threats included strikes on bridges or utility plants.

Trump said talks were close, but blamed Iran for delays. \"We were really close to a deal but they keep tapping us along,\" Trump said. On social media, Trump warned of further costs for Tehran. The Truth Social post said Iran took too long on a deal. It added, now they will have to pay the price!!!

In earlier strikes on Wednesday, the US military said fighter jets hit air defence positions. The targets included ground control stations and surveillance radar sites. Iran said the US strikes hit two water reservoirs in Sirik. Iran said the damage cut water to thousands for a short time. The Associated Press could not verify the video.

Iran talks, ceasefire pressure, and Strait of Hormuz risks

It was the second test this week of a two-month ceasefire. Iran and Israel targeted each other on Monday. Iran has stayed resilient despite weeks of heavy bombing. Tehran is betting the Strait of Hormuz gives leverage. The passage is vital for global oil and natural gas shipments.

Both sides appear to want an end, if they can frame it as a win. But compromise looked harder due to Israel’s stated goals. Benjamin Netanyahu has aimed for Iran’s government to fall. Netanyahu also sought to end Iran’s nuclear programme. Israel also wants to destroy Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Mediation efforts continued on Wednesday after consultations with the US. A delegation from Qatar arrived in Tehran for talks. An official with knowledge confirmed the visit. The official asked to remain unnamed due to sensitivity. Iran also said any deal must end fighting between Hezbollah and Israel.

Oil tanker M/T Settebello strike and Indian crew missing

After Trump’s remarks, the US military reported action against a ship. It said forces fired on an oil tanker trying to move Iranian oil. The tanker was accused of violating a blockade on Iranian ports. The US said the incident involved the Palau-flagged M/T Settebello. It said it was the eighth merchant vessel disabled.

The US military said an American aircraft used precision munitions. It said the shots went into the ship’s engine room. India’s foreign ministry said three Indian crew members were missing. It said 21 other Indian sailors were rescued. The statement did not mention the US military or the blockade.

Energy prices, sanctions demands, and negotiation gaps

The war began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on Feb 28. Since then, the conflict has hit the global economy. Energy prices rose and basic goods became costlier. On Wednesday, the international crude oil benchmark traded above USD 92 a barrel. That was more than 25% higher since the war began.

Trump appeared sensitive to petrol prices before November congressional elections. The US wants Iran to give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Iran says its nuclear work is peaceful. US officials argue the material is near weapons-grade levels. Iran is refusing to give it up and wants sanctions relief.

Iran also demanded the release of frozen assets before any final deal. Trump rejected that demand. It remained unclear how the sides could close the gap. Trump has often threatened to leave talks. Iran said it would review its position on negotiations after the new attacks.

Helicopter crash near Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon strikes

The exchange of fire followed a US Army helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz. A US official said the helicopter collided with an Iranian drone. The official spoke anonymously due to an ongoing investigation. It was not clear if the collision was deliberate. A drone boat rescued both crew members, and Trump said they were uninjured.

Israel also stepped up action against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Lebanon’s National News Agency said an airstrike hit a village east of Tyre. It reported at least six people were killed. The agency said two more died in an Israeli drone strike on a car. The strike took place in the southern city of Sidon.

With inputs from PTI