Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply following a fresh wave of US military strikes and strong warnings from both sides, raising fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. India has urged all parties to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic solutions as the situation continues to evolve.
US President Donald Trump declared that the ceasefire understanding with Iran was effectively over, saying he no longer wished to negotiate with Tehran. Speaking during the NATO Summit, Trump also warned that the United States could launch additional strikes if necessary, suggesting that Iranian power plants and other strategic infrastructure could become future targets.
The latest escalation began after the US military carried out a series of strikes targeting more than 80 locations linked to Iran. According to US Central Command, the attacks focused on Iranian air defence systems, command and control centres, coastal radar installations, anti-ship missile capabilities, and dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) boats operating near the Strait of Hormuz. Washington described the operation as a direct response to recent Iranian actions against commercial shipping in the region.
Iran responded with strong warnings, with the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stating that any country or entity providing support to US military operations against Iranian sovereignty would be treated as a legitimate military target. Iranian officials also warned that any further American attacks would be met with a “crushing” response.
According to reports, Iran claimed responsibility for attacks targeting US military installations in Bahrain and Kuwait. Iranian state media reported that the IRGC launched strikes on multiple US military sites, including Ali Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait and the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. Authorities in both countries activated air defence systems and issued public safety advisories as missile and drone threats were reported.
The conflict has also affected maritime security in the Gulf region. Qatar strongly condemned an attack on its vessel, Al-Rekayyat, near the Strait of Hormuz, calling it a serious violation of international law and a threat to global energy supplies. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important shipping routes for oil exports, and any disruption there could have significant global economic consequences.
Adding to the growing tensions, the Trump administration revoked an oil sanctions waiver that had previously allowed limited purchases of Iranian energy without attracting US sanctions. The decision came only weeks after Washington and Tehran had announced a memorandum of understanding aimed at reducing hostilities, signalling a major breakdown in diplomatic efforts.
Meanwhile, explosions were reported near Iran’s major oil facilities, including Kharg Island, Qeshm Island, Sirik, and Bandar Abbas, further increasing concerns about the security of the country’s energy infrastructure.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described the recent US strikes as “absolutely necessary,” expressing support for Washington’s actions during the alliance’s ongoing summit. However, India has called for restraint and urged all sides to avoid further escalation through dialogue and diplomacy.
With both nations exchanging military actions and increasingly aggressive statements, international observers remain concerned that the conflict could expand beyond the immediate region. Global markets are closely monitoring developments, particularly any disruption to energy supplies and international shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, as world leaders continue to push for de-escalation and a return to diplomatic engagement.