The United States and Iran exchanged sharp statements after fresh attacks across the Middle East, with both sides claiming authority over the Strait of Hormuz. The dispute has intensified fears of a broader regional conflict and further complicated diplomatic efforts to end the war.

The US military said it struck dozens of targets across Iran, including air defence systems, radar installations, missile and drone facilities, and small military boats. Washington maintained that the Strait of Hormuz remains an international waterway and is not under Iranian control.

Iran's Revolutionary Guard rejected the US position, declaring the Strait of Hormuz as Iranian territory. Tehran warned that it would not tolerate what it described as foreign military interference in the strategically important waterway.

Missile alerts were reported in Bahrain and Kuwait, while Jordan said it intercepted Iranian missiles without casualties. Iran's attacks also affected countries including Qatar and Oman, highlighting the growing regional impact of the conflict.

Oman, which has often acted as a mediator between Iran and Western nations, summoned an Iranian diplomat after attacks near its territorial waters. The incident raised concerns over the safety of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait of Hormuz has become the focal point of military and diplomatic tensions. Iran has repeatedly targeted commercial vessels, while the US has provided security assistance to ships using alternative routes along Oman's coastline.

Although global oil prices have retreated from wartime highs, continued attacks around the Strait of Hormuz have kept energy markets on alert. Any prolonged disruption to shipping through the passage could impact global fuel supplies.

Despite ongoing mediation efforts by countries including Pakistan, Qatar and Egypt, diplomatic progress has stalled. Fresh attacks have overshadowed negotiations aimed at securing a permanent end to the conflict.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to avenge the killing of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, signalling that tensions between Iran and the United States remain high despite international calls for de-escalation.