The United States launched a fresh round of military strikes on Iran on Saturday. The attacks caused explosions across southern Iran and pushed tensions between Washington and Tehran even higher.
Iranian media reported blasts in Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Chabahar. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) said the strikes began at 7.15 pm Washington time (2315 GMT).
The US military said President Donald Trump ordered the operation after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) “blatantly attacked” a Cyprus-flagged container ship passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Bahrain activates air raid sirens
Bahrain sounded air raid sirens as regional tensions increased. The Interior Ministry asked people to stay calm and move to the nearest safe location.
“Citizens and residents are urged to remain calm and head to the nearest safe place,” the ministry said. Authorities continued to monitor the security situation as military activity intensified across the Gulf.
Qatar raises security threat level
Qatar raised its security threat level to high. Authorities advised residents to stay at home or move to a secure place if needed. The Interior Ministry also asked people to avoid unnecessary travel. It urged everyone to follow official safety instructions until further notice. The advisory came as military tensions continued to rise across the region.
UAE intercepts missiles and drones
The United Arab Emirates activated its air defence systems after Iran launched missiles and drones toward the country. The UAE Ministry of Defence said its forces successfully intercepted the incoming threats. The ministry added that the explosions heard across the country resulted from its air defence systems destroying the missiles and drones.
Qatar intercepts missile attack
Qatar's armed forces also intercepted a missile attack targeting the country. The Ministry of Defence said the armed forces “intercepted missile attack which targeted” the state of Qatar. Officials did not immediately release details about where the missiles came from or whether they caused any damage.
US warns Iran after the strikes
After launching the operation, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warned Iran. “Iran made a poor choice. Now they pay,” Hegseth said.
CENTCOM said the United States aimed to impose a “heavy cost” on Iran by reducing its ability to attack civilian sailors and commercial ships using the Strait of Hormuz.
Southern Iran reports more attacks
Iran's semi-official Mehr News Agency reported fresh attacks in Khuzestan province. A security official said Hendijan, Mahshahr and Abadan were struck by what authorities described as “enemy projectiles.”
Officials did not immediately report casualties or the full extent of the damage.
Regional tensions continue to rise
The latest US strikes have increased fears of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Several Gulf countries have strengthened security, activated air defence systems and issued public safety alerts. The situation remains tense as military operations continue and regional governments prepare for possible further escalation.