The United States and Iran are exchanging intensified strikes across the Middle East, with reports of air and missile attacks prompting renewed fears that a fragile interim ceasefire is unraveling. Multiple outlets report that the United States launches new airstrikes against Iran early Thursday, followed by Tehran’s response through attacks that target U.S.-allied countries in the region. Sirens and alerts are reported in several places, including Bahrain—where the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet is based—as well as Kuwait and Qatar. Additional reports also mention sirens in Jordan, where U.S. troops and aircraft are stationed.
Several accounts describe the day’s exchange as larger than earlier rounds, noting that back-and-forth attacks over preceding days have already repeatedly threatened the ceasefire. France 24 also reports that missiles are fired at Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan, and that explosions are reported near Iran’s nuclear power plant, alongside other areas in Iran during the afternoon. The renewed escalation occurs amid expectations of an interim deal aimed at helping end the wider conflict, according to the reports.
