Tensions in the Middle East escalated after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz until further notice, following an incident involving a commercial vessel that allegedly ignored Iranian navigation orders. The Strait of Hormuz is a key global shipping route, carrying nearly 20% of the world's oil and LNG supplies. The announcement triggered fresh concerns over global energy security, with oil prices rising. In response, the United States carried out airstrikes on Iranian missile sites, drone facilities, naval assets and command centres. The US said the operation was aimed at protecting international shipping after Iran allegedly targeted a commercial cargo vessel transiting the strait. Iran retaliated by launching missiles and drones towards Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE, where several US military bases are located. While air defence systems intercepted many of the projectiles, diplomatic efforts led by Oman continue amid fears of a wider regional conflict.