The United States has launched a military strike against targets across Iran, with missiles reaching as far as the Caspian coast, in response to President Donald Trump's threats over the escalation of the Middle East conflict to the Red Sea region.
The strike marks a significant escalation in the conflict, which has already seen Houthi attacks on Saudi tankers constrict crude trade in the region. The Red Sea is a critical shipping route, and any disruption to its operations can have far-reaching consequences for global trade. The U.S. action is likely to be closely watched by maritime professionals and shipping companies operating in the region.