US Israel Iran War Latest News: The United States and Iran exchanged fresh military strikes on Thursday, July 9, 2026, further escalating tensions in the Gulf and dimming hopes for a lasting ceasefire. The latest developments began after Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks on US military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait following an earlier round of American strikes. Hours later, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced it had completed another wave of airstrikes, saying it had hit around 90 Iranian military targets. Tehran warned that further retaliation remained possible, while President Donald Trump declared the interim ceasefire “over,” raising concerns of a broader regional conflict.
US Israel Iran War Latest News: Iran Launches Retaliatory Attacks
Iran carried out missile and drone attacks targeting US military installations in Bahrain and Kuwait after accusing Washington of violating an earlier understanding by launching fresh strikes on Iranian territory. Kuwait’s military said its air defence systems intercepted several hostile missiles and drones, while Bahrain also heightened security following the attacks. Iranian officials warned that additional military action could follow if US operations continued.
US Israel Iran War Latest News: US Responds With Fresh Airstrikes
Following Iran’s retaliation, the US military launched another round of airstrikes against Iran. On Thursday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the operation had concluded after striking around 90 targets across Iran. The military also released black-and-white footage showing what appeared to be attacks on an airport runway and missile launchers.
In its statement, CENTCOM said, “US forces remain vigilant, lethal, and prepared to execute operations directed by the Commander in Chief,” According to the US military, the strikes were intended to protect freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz following recent attacks on commercial shipping.
US Israel Iran War Latest News: Why the Strait of Hormuz Is Central to the Conflict
US officials said the latest operation was aimed at keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to international shipping after Iran was accused of threatening commercial vessels in the strategic waterway. The narrow passage handles a significant share of global oil exports, making any disruption a major concern for energy markets and the global economy.
US Israel Iran War Latest News: Oil Prices Rise as Conflict Deepens
Oil prices climbed on Thursday as the latest exchange of military strikes between the United States and Iran dampened hopes for a quick diplomatic resolution. At around 0054 GMT, Brent crude rose 78 cents (1%) to $78.80 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude gained 74 cents (1.01%) to $74.26 per barrel. The increase reflects growing concerns that prolonged conflict could disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil exports, potentially tightening energy supplies worldwide.
US Israel Iran War Latest News: Trump Declares Ceasefire “Over”
US President Donald Trump said the interim ceasefire between Washington and Tehran had effectively collapsed. “For me, I think it’s over,” Although Trump said negotiations could continue, he questioned whether diplomacy would succeed. “They can talk, but I think they’re wasting their time,” he said. His remarks added to uncertainty over whether both sides would return to negotiations or continue military operations.
US Israel Iran War Latest News: Iran Rejects Trump’s Remarks
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, one of Tehran’s lead negotiators, rejected Trump’s comments in a post on X. He said thatTrump’s remarks did not show the sign of power but an admission of the failure of US policy toward Iran. His response underscored the widening diplomatic divide as both countries continue to exchange military and political warnings
