U.S. bombs Iranian military sites and Kuwait is hit by drone and missile fire - NPR

The volatile US-Iran conflict escalated dramatically today as US Central Command confirmed precision strikes against Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) military sites, marking a significant intensification of a conflict now stretching into its 94th day. This direct action was almost immediately mirrored by drone and ballistic missile attacks targeting strategic assets in Kuwait, a key US ally, underscoring the rapid, tit-for-tat nature of the ongoing regional confrontation. The strikes come amidst a complex backdrop where the US attempts to navigate both military deterrence and a fragile diplomatic track, with President Trump recently hinting at a "deal" despite the escalating hostilities. The US operations, dubbed "Operation Ironclad Resolve," target Iran's drone and missile launch capabilities that have recently menaced Red Sea shipping lanes and Gulf partners, likely linked to proxy groups like the Houthi rebels. The attacks on Kuwait highlight Tehran's willingness to broaden the conflict geographically and engage US regional interests directly, raising fears about the stability of the Strait of Hormuz and global energy markets. Looking ahead, the immediate focus is on whether either side seeks de-escalation channels or if this marks a new, more dangerous phase of open warfare. International observers are keenly watching for further retaliatory strikes and any impact on ongoing, clandestine cyber warfare operations. The incident forces regional actors, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council states, to re-evaluate their security postures amidst a conflict that shows no signs of abatement, threatening to destabilize the entire Middle East.