Middle East tensions rise again as US and Iran exchange fresh strikes

Advertisement

New Delhi: Fresh United States attacks on Iranian targets have caused increased tensions in the Middle East, following retaliatory Iranian missile and drone strikes.

The latest escalation comes despite diplomatic attempts to contain the crisis within the region.

It is reported that the US Air Force launched strikes on various Iranian military locations after an American Apache helicopter was shot down close to the Strait of Hormuz.

The US has described the action as defensive, whilst Iran has described it as aggression and promised retribution.

Advertisement

As a response, Iran has fired missiles and launched drones at various US bases within Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan.

Whilst it has been reported that many have been intercepted and no serious casualties were reported, concerns are now great throughout the Persian Gulf.

The current crisis has also raised fears for continued access through the Strait of Hormuz, which handles much of the world’s oil and natural gas exports.

These concerns have been exacerbated, as oil prices have begun to rise, and analysts say it is unclear if diplomacy is still an option between the US and Iran, due to constant violations and retaliatory attacks, and if diplomacy is still a viable option.

Also Read: Pak systemic rot: Karachi University staff forced into month-long strike over unpaid dues

Advertisement