West Asia conflict fears return; US attacks Iran, Tehran strikes Jordan

TEHRAN: Fears of renewed conflict are growing in West Asia after a brief period of calm. A fresh US attack on Iran, followed by an Iranian strike on Jordan, has once again raised concerns of a wider war. The developments could also hurt ongoing mediation efforts aimed at ending the prolonged conflict and reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

There had been no major attacks in the region for nearly a month. The latest strikes come at a time when talks led by Arab countries and others to prevent further conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz were reportedly nearing the final stage.

The US launched a fresh attack on Iran's Larak Island on Sunday, six months after the US and Israel jointly attacked Iran on February 28, 2026. Iranian soldiers and civilians were reportedly killed in the latest attack. Iran responded by launching ballistic missiles at US bases in Jordan. The attacks took place late on Sunday night and early Monday morning.

The latest exchange of attacks between the US and Iran has raised serious concerns across West Asia. US President Donald Trump had earlier claimed that the US had taken control of the Strait of Hormuz and removed mines planted by Iran in the waters. However, shipping records from the Strait reportedly contradicted the claim.

The number of ships passing through the Strait has dropped sharply. Fewer than five vessels are now crossing it each day, compared with 120-130 previously. Reports suggest that cargo movement is taking place only with Iran's approval. The latest US attack on Larak Island, located near the Strait of Hormuz, comes against this backdrop. Iran usually targets US military facilities in Gulf countries when retaliating against American attacks. The decision to target Jordan instead may be linked to Iran's apparent reluctance to further strain its relations with the Gulf countries.