US and Iran exchange more strikes in Gulf as tensions escalate
Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated following a series of military strikes in the Persian Gulf. Both nations are increasing their military presence, with the US enforcing a blockade and Iran targeting regional strongholds.
Why it matters
The situation represents a significant risk of regional conflict with potential impacts on global oil markets and international security.
<p>The US military said it fired on another merchant vessel that was trying to breach its blockade of Iran's ports, while the Islamic Republic targeted American strongholds around the Persian Gulf.</p> <p>The US and Iran showed no sign of backing away from their conflict after a 13th straight night of strikes. With fighting flaring again and diplomacy uncertain, both sides made moves suggesting an escalation was possible. US embassies in the Middle East began alerting Americans in the region that options to leave could become more limited, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guard advised residents of neighbouring countries to stay away from bases with US troops.</p> <p>Saudi Arabia struck the port city of Hodeida in Yemen in response to Iranian-backed Houthi rebel attacks on Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea, the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen said early Saturday.
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