Iran launched missile attacks on American military bases in Jordan and Bahrain on Wednesday, marking a major escalation in tensions with the United States.
The attacks came days after the US carried out strikes on Iranian targets following the downing of an American Apache helicopter. The latest exchange has further strained a fragile ceasefire that took effect in April.
Iran also warned Gulf countries against allowing the United States or Israel to use their territory for military operations against the Islamic Republic.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said they fired long-range missiles at American targets in Jordan and struck a US military base in Bahrain.
Residents in Bahrain’s capital, Manama, reported hearing several loud explosions during the attack.
Jordan’s military said its air defence systems intercepted five missiles. Authorities reported no casualties or damage.
Bahrain also confirmed that it intercepted and destroyed several aerial threats before they reached their targets.
Meanwhile, Kuwait’s military said its air defence systems were engaging hostile aerial targets in its airspace.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry said countries in the Gulf region have a legal and moral responsibility to prevent the United States and Israel from using their territory to launch attacks against Iran.
The ministry specifically called on nations along the southern shores of the Persian Gulf to deny support for military operations targeting the country.
The warning reflects growing concerns that the conflict could spread across the wider Middle East.
US Responds After Helicopter Downing
The latest escalation follows US military strikes on Iranian positions after Iran shot down an American Apache helicopter earlier this week.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said it struck Iranian air defence systems, surveillance radar sites, and ground control facilities near the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi vowed retaliation, stating that Iran would not leave any attack or threat unanswered.
Global Powers Call for Restraint
Russia and China have urged both sides to avoid further escalation.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry expressed concern over the renewed confrontation and called on all parties to exercise restraint.
China also appealed for calm, urging those involved to take practical steps to reduce tensions and prevent a wider conflict.
The latest violence has raised concerns about regional stability just days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being co-hosted by the United States.
Oil Markets and Shipping Routes Under Pressure
The renewed conflict has also affected global energy markets.
Crude oil prices rose by about one percent on Wednesday as hopes for a quick diplomatic resolution faded.
The situation has also renewed concerns over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.
Iran has maintained restrictions around the strategic waterway and warned foreign military forces operating nearby that they remain at risk if hostilities continue.
Uncertainty Over Peace Talks
US President Donald Trump recently said negotiations aimed at ending the conflict were in their final stages.
However, the latest military exchanges have cast doubt on those efforts.
The ceasefire has faced several challenges in recent weeks, including renewed clashes between Iran and Israel and ongoing violence involving Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Analysts warn that without a lasting agreement, the risk of further military confrontation across the region remains high.
SEO Title: Iran Attacks US Bases in Jordan and Bahrain Amid Rising Middle East Tensions
