Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait on Sunday in retaliation for US airstrikes, dramatically widening the Gulf conflict and threatening to derail any remaining diplomatic channels.
Retaliation across the Gulf
Tehran confirmed the strikes, saying they targeted military installations it accused of hosting US forces. Bahrain reported at least 12 civilian injuries from debris, while Kuwait activated its air defense systems and intercepted several projectiles. The US Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, said no American assets were hit.
Nuclear talks on the brink
Iran's foreign ministry warned it would halt all nuclear negotiations indefinitely unless the US and its allies cease military operations in the region. The statement came hours after the US conducted what the Pentagon called 'precision strikes' on Iranian Revolutionary Guard facilities in southern Iran.
Global fallout
The widening conflict has pushed oil past $130 per barrel and disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of the world's petroleum passes. The IMF warned Monday that a prolonged war could tip the global economy into recession. Both the UN and the EU have called for an immediate ceasefire, but no formal talks are scheduled.