Goa, July 12 -- The Middle East conflict escalated dramatically after Iran declared the Strait of Hormuz closed "until further notice," raising concerns over global oil supplies and regional security.

The announcement followed a series of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting US military facilities in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan. Qatar said it intercepted an incoming missile, while Bahrain and the UAE activated air defence systems to counter additional threats.

The escalation came after fresh US strikes on Iran, launched in response to an attack on a Cyprus-flagged container ship in the Strait of Hormuz.

Explosions were reported across several cities in southern Iran, including Bandar Abbas and Bushehr.

Published by HT Digital C...