US President Donald Trump has pledged a forceful response to Iran after missile attacks on American military installations in Jordan reignited conflict in the Middle East.

The attacks, which came amid a brief pause in hostilities, dashed hopes for renewed diplomatic negotiations and caused a spike in global oil prices by about five percent due to fears of supply disruptions.

Recent Attacks and Military Responses

  • Saudi Arabia and the US conducted airstrikes on militant bases in Iraq targeting Iran-aligned groups.
  • Iran launched missiles at US bases in Jordan, which the Jordanian military intercepted, while Iranian Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility.
  • Iranian state media reported US airstrikes near Iran’s border with Iraq, hitting uninhabited areas with no casualties.
  • Israel accused Hezbollah, an Iran-backed group, of violating a truce by firing a drone at an Israeli vehicle from Lebanese territory.

Proxy Warfare and Regional Dynamics

Experts describe the ongoing conflict as a proxy war that Iran is using to maintain strategic leverage while diplomatic efforts continue elsewhere. A Saudi security analyst noted that this proxy conflict is a continuation of direct warfare by other means, coordinated with strategic intent.

In Iraq, joint US-Saudi operations targeted logistics and weapons sites linked to Iran-backed militias, which reportedly resulted in at least 20 deaths among the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF). The PMF condemned the strikes as a dangerous escalation and a violation of Iraqi sovereignty, though the US stated the attacks were coordinated with the Iraqi government.

Maritime Tensions and Strategic Waterways

The conflict has also affected key maritime routes. Iran claims control over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for global energy shipments, and has blocked it during the war. Tehran announced plans to charge fees for passage, a move strongly opposed by Washington.

Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have threatened Saudi ports and vessels in the Red Sea, a critical alternative route for oil exports. Accusations have emerged that the Houthis, under Iranian guidance, aim to impose transit fees for ships passing through the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.

Diplomatic Efforts Amid Rising Tensions

In a separate development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with President Trump in Washington to discuss the conflict and reaffirm their shared goal of preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Both leaders described the talks as constructive despite public disagreements over the war.

President Trump’s strong rhetoric underscores the US commitment to counter Iranian aggression and protect its interests and allies in the region.