Liveblog Iran war: Iran strikes again against targets in Kuwait

Ukraine has reported attacks on 54 shadow fleet tankers within a month, according to reports from German media outlet n-tv. The strikes, which target vessels associated with Iran’s clandestine maritime operations, have intensified in recent weeks, marking a sharp escalation in tensions between the two nations. The Ukrainian military claims these attacks were carried out using long-range missiles and drones, though the exact number of casualties and locations remain unclear. This surge in activity comes amid heightened regional instability, with both sides accusing each other of escalating hostilities. The conflict has taken a new turn following a series of coordinated strikes by Iranian forces against targets in Kuwait. Early on Monday, the Kuwaiti military confirmed that its air defense systems intercepted multiple enemy rockets and drones, resulting in explosions attributed to the deflection of incoming threats. State-run Iranian broadcaster Irib claimed the attacks were retaliation for “American crimes” and targeted U.S. military bases in the Gulf state. These strikes underscore the deepening hostility between Tehran and Washington, with both sides increasingly willing to take direct action against perceived adversaries. In response to the escalating situation, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has extended troop deployments in the region, as revealed by the Wall Street Journal. According to sources close to the administration, this move signals that the ongoing conflict, originating six months ago, may persist well into the coming year. The decision reflects growing concerns over the potential for further clashes, particularly given the increased frequency of attacks targeting Iranian assets and the retaliatory measures being taken by Tehran. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued veiled threats against Iran, warning of additional attacks should the situation worsen. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that the previous night’s strike had destroyed more than just Iranian radar systems, calling it a “very heavy attack.” He emphasized that the United States was prepared to launch another strike at any time, highlighting the administration’s readiness to respond to Iranian aggression. Such rhetoric adds to the already volatile atmosphere, raising fears of further militarization in the region. The economic fallout from the conflict has been equally severe, with the Iranian rial plummeting to record lows. As of the latest exchange rate data, the currency has dropped below 2.2 million rials per dollar, representing a ten percent decline in value within a week. Over the past year, the rial has lost nearly half of its purchasing power, exacerbating inflation and financial uncertainty. Analysts suggest that the continued hostilities will likely deepen the country’s economic crisis, compounding existing challenges such as sanctions and internal unrest. Amid the rising violence, there have been reports of civilian casualties linked to the conflict. Iranian state media claimed that during a missile strike near the southern coast, a building used for a wedding celebration was hit, killing at least four people, including a child. At least 70 others were injured, with some accounts suggesting even higher numbers. The incident has drawn condemnation from the Iranian government, with the Foreign Ministry accusing the U.S. of committing war crimes. In response, the U.S. military has neither confirmed nor denied the allegations, instead reaffirming its policy of avoiding civilian casualties. A spokesperson for the U.S. Central Command, Tim Hawkins, reiterated that American forces do not target non-combatants, contrasting this stance with the actions of Iranian Revolutionary Guards.