The United States carried out a third round of strikes on Iranian military targets on Sunday, while Iran responded by attacking U.S. bases and facilities across the Gulf region. This marks a sharp escalation in hostilities despite a June memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at de-escalation.

U.S. Central Command announced the completion of the latest strikes, which targeted around 140 sites this week. These included missile and drone launch positions, ammunition storage facilities, communication systems, and other military infrastructure.

“Iran was provided yet another opportunity to demonstrate adherence to the MoU after being held accountable for earlier attacks on commercial vessels but has again failed,” the command stated on X.

Iran’s Press TV reported explosions in several southern cities. In retaliation, Iran launched strikes against U.S. targets in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Kuwait.

The UAE and Kuwait confirmed that their air defence systems intercepted incoming missiles and drones. Kuwait’s armed forces noted that any explosions heard by residents were from defensive intercepts and urged the public to follow official safety instructions.

Reports indicate Iran also hit a U.S. military communications site and radar facility in Bahrain, and fired a ballistic missile at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Explosions were reported in Qatar, prompting authorities to raise the security alert level. Residents were advised to stay indoors and avoid windows.

Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have destroyed a command centre and drone hangars at Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan. It also reported a major attack on U.S. aircraft carrier support and refuelling facilities at Oman’s Port of Duqm.

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran announced the closure of the waterway after striking a vessel it accused of endangering maritime security by switching off its tracking systems. The IRGC warned of a “severe response” to any retaliation and said the strait would remain closed until U.S. interference in the region ends.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations reported that a container ship caught fire after an incident off the coast of Oman on Saturday.

On June 18, Iran and the United States signed an MoU to end regional conflicts, including in Lebanon. The agreement called for negotiations within 60 days to reach a final deal.