Middle East Conflict Escalates as Iran Targets US Bases

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate, with Iran claiming to have targeted US bases in the UAE and Kuwait. According to a statement by Iranian state television, the military struck satellite communication systems, equipment depots, and fighter jet hangars at Ahmad al-Jaber Air Base in Kuwait and Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.

US President Donald Trump had threatened further attacks on Iran if it continued to target US interests. The Pentagon has also increased its presence in the region, with the US Navy escorting 40 oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a record figure in wartime.

The volume of oil passing through the Strait of Hormuz has almost returned to pre-war levels, with around 18 million barrels per day being transported. This is according to an image posted by President Trump on Truth, showing that oil volumes have 'come back'.

Meanwhile, tensions between Lebanon and Israel remain high, with a prisoner exchange taking place after six months of conflict. A Lebanese national was released from Israeli custody, marking the first prisoner exchange since the start of the war.