Middle East Conflict Erupts as Iran Launches Missiles at US Forces

The recent flare-up of hostilities in the Middle East has raised concerns about a return to all-out war. On Wednesday, Iran launched a barrage of missiles at American forces in the region, while the US and Saudi Arabia struck Tehran-backed militias in neighboring Iraq.

At least 20 fighters were killed and 32 others wounded in the overnight strikes on eastern Iraq, according to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). The US military later announced that it had partnered with Saudi Arabia to strike multiple logistics and weapons sites in response to alleged drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities.

The attacks have sent oil prices spiking, with Brent crude jumping 3.1% to $84.58 a barrel. The renewed hostilities also underscore the difficulty of winding down a five-month conflict that has jolted the world economy and is unpopular among Americans.