The United States and Iran exchanged fresh military strikes early Thursday, raising fears of a wider conflict in the Persian Gulf despite ongoing efforts to preserve a fragile ceasefire.

The US launched airstrikes on Iranian military and port facilities following Tehran’s attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by firing missiles and drones toward Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar, with Kuwaiti forces intercepting several incoming projectiles.

Iranian state media reported explosions in Bushehr, Bandar Abbas and other southern cities, while a strike reportedly killed a firefighter at an airport in Iranshahr. US forces said the operation was aimed at weakening Iran’s ability to threaten navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

President Donald Trump warned that further Iranian attacks would trigger a stronger US response, insisting the ceasefire was effectively over despite allowing negotiations to continue. Iran, however, vowed to respond to any future strikes, with senior officials accusing Washington of undermining diplomatic efforts.

The renewed hostilities have heightened concerns over regional security and global energy supplies, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a vital route for international oil and gas exports.