US-Iran Tensions Escalate with Drone and Missile Strikes Amid Fragile Ceasefire
The United States and Iran have engaged in a series of military exchanges near the Strait of Hormuz, threatening the stability of a fragile ceasefire. The US military reported shooting down four Iranian drones that posed a threat to regional maritime traffic and conducted strikes on Iranian coastal surveillance radar sites. In retaliation, Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones targeting Kuwait and Bahrain, specifically aiming at the Ali al-Salem airbase in Bahrain, which houses the US Navy's 5th Fleet. These actions have strained efforts to extend the ceasefire and have led to increased regional instability. The World Food Programme has highlighted the humanitarian impact, noting that millions are being pushed into hunger due to rising energy and food prices linked to the conflict. 
