Tensions in the Middle East escalated sharply on Wednesday after Iran launched missile attacks targeting military installations linked to the United States in Jordan, Bahrain and Kuwait, following American airstrikes on Iranian military facilities. The latest exchange has raised concerns about a broader regional conflict and complicated ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at ending months of hostilities.

Iran responds after US strikes military sites

The United States carried out airstrikes on targets in southern Iran early Wednesday, saying the action was a response to the crash of a US Army Apache attack helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. According to US Central Command, the strikes targeted Iranian air defence systems, radar installations and command facilities. Iranian authorities acknowledged strikes near Bandar Abbas and Qeshm Island but did not immediately provide details on the extent of the damage.