President Donald Trump said the United States destroyed military targets on Iran’s Kharg Island, a critical hub for the country’s oil exports, and warned that oil infrastructure could be struck next if Iran continues disrupting shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian leaders cautioned that attacks on the island would trigger severe retaliation, underscoring the site’s economic and strategic importance.

The escalation comes as Iran has launched missile and drone attacks on Israel and Gulf states and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil trade. In response, the United States is deploying 2,500 additional Marines and an amphibious assault ship to the region, joining a large naval presence already operating nearby. Officials said the deployment does not necessarily signal an imminent ground operation.

Violence has spread across the region. A missile struck the United States Embassy compound in Baghdad, while Israel reported hitting more than 200 targets in Iran in a single day. In Lebanon, nearly 800 people have been killed and hundreds of thousands displaced amid Israeli strikes against Iran-backed Hezbollah militants.

Tensions also flared in Tehran, where an explosion struck near a large state-organized rally. As both sides exchange threats over oil facilities and military targets, the conflict shows little sign of easing, raising fears of broader regional and economic consequences.