Iran-US conflict and Middle East attacks

The conflict between the United States and Iran has intensified, with both sides engaging in new military strikes. The US military conducted self-defence strikes on Iran's Qeshm Island, and Iran retaliated by targeting US military assets, including a US-Israeli vessel and the Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain. The escalation has spilled into neighbouring countries: Kuwait reported intercepting drones and missiles, and its international airport was hit by an Iranian drone attack, causing injuries and flight suspensions. Bahrain also intercepted Iranian drones. Diplomatic efforts remain uncertain, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating that sanctions relief will only come in exchange for nuclear concessions, not the opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump insists negotiations with Iran are continuing, but Tehran's negotiator has threatened to abandon talks if Israeli attacks on Lebanon persist. The war has dragged on for over three months, causing domestic political strain for the Trump administration due to rising gas prices and inflation. Other news articles provided cover unrelated events: a Russian attack on Kyiv, a flood-related closure of NHS hospitals in the UK, devastation in Ukraine from Russian missiles, xenophobic attacks in South Africa against Mozambicans, a deadly fire at a Delhi restaurant, and Trump's appointment of a loyalist as acting director of national intelligence.