The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified sharply on Friday as fresh US airstrikes reportedly killed at least seven people in Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate with missile attacks targeting military installations in several Gulf countries hosting American forces.

According to Iranian state media, the US strikes hit multiple locations, including military facilities and strategic infrastructure, leaving several people dead and many others injured. Iranian authorities condemned the attacks as a violation of international law and vowed a “strong and proportionate” response.

Iran launches retaliatory missile strikes

Hours after the airstrikes, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles towards US military bases in the Gulf region. Air defence systems were activated in countries including Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait, where American military installations are located.

Officials said several missiles were intercepted before impact, while authorities assessed damage at targeted sites. There were no immediate reports of casualties at the US bases.

US says operations aimed at military targets

The United States said its strikes were directed at military assets linked to Iran and were intended to prevent further threats against American personnel and regional allies.

US officials maintained that the operation was “defensive in nature” and warned Tehran against further escalation, adding that Washington remains prepared to protect its forces in the Middle East.

Global concern over widening conflict

The latest exchange has heightened fears of a broader regional war, with global leaders urging both sides to exercise restraint. The United Nations and several world powers called for immediate de-escalation, warning that continued hostilities could destabilise the Middle East and disrupt global energy supplies.

The escalating conflict also pushed global oil prices higher, while investors shifted towards safe-haven assets such as gold amid growing geopolitical uncertainty.

The situation remains highly volatile, with both Washington and Tehran indicating they are prepared for further action if hostilities continue.