Key facts
- The US conducted airstrikes against Iran on Wednesday.
- Iran retaliated with attacks on Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan.
- Jordan reported intercepting missiles aimed at a US air base.
- President Trump warned Iran would "pay the price" for stalled peace talks.
- The conflict has led to a more than 25% increase in international crude oil prices.
The United States launched airstrikes against Iran early Wednesday, with Tehran responding by firing on regional countries, escalating a conflict that threatens to derail peace efforts. President Donald Trump warned that Iran would "pay the price" for stalled negotiations.
These exchanges, the second in two days after Iran and Israel attacked each other on Monday, put a two-month ceasefire to the test. Trump's warning came after Iran targeted Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, all hosting US bases. Jordan reported downing five incoming missiles aimed at the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, which houses US F-35 fighter jets, stating there were no casualties. Bahrain and Kuwait also reported intercepting incoming fire.
Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, condemned the US strikes as a violation of sovereignty and indicated Iran's right to self-defense, including reciprocal action. A spokesperson for the ministry stated Iran would review its position on peace negotiations in light of the new attacks. Meanwhile, a Qatari delegation arrived in Tehran for talks, following consultations with the US.
The recent exchanges occurred a day after a US Army attack helicopter crashed near the Strait of Hormuz following a collision with an Iranian drone, though both crew members were rescued and unharmed. Trump had previously expressed renewed optimism about negotiations but also made demands, such as Iran renouncing its highly enriched uranium reserve, which Iran has refused, instead seeking sanctions relief and the release of frozen assets.
Trump has repeatedly threatened to abandon talks, accusing Iran of taking too long to negotiate a deal. Iran, in turn, insists that any agreement to end the war must also halt the fighting between its ally Hezbollah and Israel. The conflict has already impacted the global economy, driving international crude oil prices above $92 per barrel, a rise of over 25% since the war began.