By Jon Gambrell, Michelle L. Price and Konstantin Toropin
Dubai, June 11
The United States launched a fresh wave of airstrikes on Iran on Thursday following warnings from President Donald Trump over stalled negotiations and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The strikes reportedly targeted multiple Iranian cities and marked another sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict despite recent attempts to maintain a fragile ceasefire between the two sides.
In response, Iran carried out strikes targeting Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, widening fears of regional instability and further escalation across the Gulf.
The latest developments came amid continued diplomatic deadlock between Washington and Tehran. President Trump had earlier warned that Iran would “pay the price” if negotiations failed to progress.
Iran has meanwhile maintained pressure around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical energy shipping routes. The continued tensions in the waterway have raised concerns over disruptions to global oil and natural gas supplies, contributing to higher energy prices in international markets.
Iran’s envoy to the United Nations criticised the United States over its approach to negotiations. “Iran has never negotiated under threats and pressure and will never submit to pressure or question,” Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani told the UN Security Council.
The latest exchange of attacks marks another episode in the continuing hostilities that have tested the already fragile ceasefire in recent weeks.
Regional tensions have also remained high due to the broader conflict involving Israel and Iran-backed groups in the Middle East. Observers say the situation continues to pose risks to regional security, energy markets and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Further international reactions are expected as both sides continue military operations while signalling interest in a negotiated outcome.
