The US military launched new airstrikes against Iran to 'swiftly punish' Tehran after an Iranian attack killed two American service members in Jordan. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing The Guardian.
Key events
- 01Kuwait says it is responding to Iranian missile and drone attacks.
- 02US launches new round of strikes after two troops killed.
Sirens in Bahrain
Sirens were activated in Bahrain, which hosts a US naval base. A journalist from Agence France-Presse (AFP) confirmed sirens had rung out in Bahrain's capital Manama. Bahrain's interior ministry urged residents to head to the nearest safe place of shelter.
Trump's statement
US President Donald Trump held a brief phone call with NewsNation, stating the troops died 'in service of our country' and reiterated that the war on Iran was launched to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. When asked about Iran's assertion that it would no longer honor the memorandum of understanding, Trump replied: 'I couldn't care less.'
Military analysis
The Guardian's defence and security editor Dan Sabbagh noted that Iran has enough capability to inflict damage despite US military superiority. The US is exploring ways to bend Iran to its will, but a substantial ground campaign would be required, for which the US is not prepared. Military escalation was discussed at a White House Situation Room meeting, with options including bombing a nuclear site at Pickaxe Mountain or seizing Kharg Island, through which 90% of Iran's oil exports flow. However, holding Kharg would be challenging due to Iranian missiles and drones.
Attacks on Kuwait
Kuwait's army said it was dealing with hostile missile and drone attacks from Iran. The Iranian army claimed it targeted two US bases in Kuwait with drones, hitting an ammunition depot at Camp Buehring and radar systems at Ali Al Salem air base. It was not immediately clear whether the attacks were successful.
Overall situation
Continued US bombing is depleting stocks of air defense interceptors and expensive missiles. According to estimates from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, air defense interceptor stocks are down by half, and expensive missile stocks are down by a quarter to a third. Iran could expand the conflict with help from regional allies. Reuters reported that Iran has asked Yemen's Houthis to stand ready to close the Red Sea oil route. Iran has also attacked power and desalination plants in Kuwait, threatening daily life.