Sixth consecutive night of US airstrikes escalates Iran conflict
US and Iran escalate with sustained airstrikes and retaliatory drone attacks across multiple countries.
Event / Conflict
Escalating tensions between the US and Iran over nuclear capabilities, including discussions of military options and political debate over nuclear weapons policy.
2026-08-12 to 2026-11-09 · UTC publication dates
Coverage begins 16 Jul, 11:31 UTC
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The US military announced the completion of a series of nighttime strikes against Iran, targeting Iranian command centers, air defense sites, missile and drone installations, and coastal surveillance facilities, including locations near Bandar Abbas in southern Iran.
Iran's joint military command stated that all regional infrastructure would be crushed by Iranian armed forces to the point of leaving no trace, in response to US threats.
Oil prices increased on Thursday driven by renewed Middle East tensions. Brent crude rose 0.41% to $85.30 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate crude increased 0.67% to $80.13 per barrel.
The US State Department approved an arms sale to Saudi Arabia valued at approximately $2 billion. The department stated this supports US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening security for a major non-NATO ally that serves as a factor for political stability and economic progress in the region.
The strategic Strait of Ormuz, through which one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas passed before the conflict, is again paralyzed due to escalating Middle East tensions.
Iran's military announced drone attacks on US military bases and installations in Kuwait and Bahrain. The attacks targeted radar systems, Patriot air defense systems, and fuel storage sites at Ali al-Salem air base in Kuwait, as well as military installations at Sheikh Isa air base in Bahrain.
US President Donald Trump stated on Fox News that he would strike Iranian power plants and bridges the following week unless Iranian officials sit down at the negotiation table.
President Donald Trump announced the release of an American citizen who had been detained in Iran since December 2024. Trump stated that the United States appreciates this gesture of good faith from Iran.
US and Iran escalate with sustained airstrikes and retaliatory drone attacks across multiple countries.
Trump announces American detainee's release from Iran amid military escalation.
Strait of Ormuz disruption amid US-Iran military crisis threatens global oil supplies and drives price increases.
US approves $2 billion Saudi arms sale during intensifying Iran military escalation.
US and Iran traded threats before conducting reciprocal military strikes on each other's targets.