The United States expanded its military actions against Iran early Thursday. American forces attacked targets farther north and fired upon a ship accused of trying to breach the naval blockade on Iran. In response, Iran launched missile and drone attacks on U.S. allies in the region, warning of further escalation.

The back-and-forth strikes between the U.S. and Iran in the Middle East have weakened an interim peace agreement. Iranian officials report over 35 people killed and 300 injured due to U.S. strikes, which now also include areas around Tehran.

The initial conflict began on February 28 when the U.S. and Israel initiated war against Iran. Tehran closed the Strait of Hormuz, affecting global oil, fertilizer, and goods prices. Iranian military spokesperson Col. Ebrahim Zolfaghari warned of Iran’s potential widespread attacks on regional infrastructure if U.S. threats persist.

“All the infrastructure in the region will be crushed under the steel blows of the powerful armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” stated Zolfaghari.

Thursday’s U.S. attacks reached Tehran and Semnan province, a vital area for Iran’s missile production and space program. Additional strikes occurred in Hamedan, Hormozgan, Khuzestan, Lorestan, Markazi, and Sistan and Baluchestan provinces. The U.S. also attacked Greater Tunb Island, a strategic location in the Strait of Hormuz.

An incident occurred with the Curacao-flagged oil tanker Belma when it attempted to reach Iran’s Kharg Island. A U.S. missile disabled the ship after it ignored warnings. Another U.S. strike targeted a barracks in Sistan and Baluchestan province, killing several soldiers.

Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes on Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi condemned a drone attack on Irbil, Iraq, during his visit to the U.S. where he committed to disarm Iranian-backed groups.

Tensions center around the Strait of Hormuz, essential for oil trade. The U.S. threatens to reopen the waterway but faces challenges in doing so without significant military resources. Oil prices have risen, complicating politics for President Donald Trump and the Republican Party ahead of forthcoming elections.

Despite the ongoing conflict, mediators have yet to ease tensions. President Trump suggested Iran may still be open to peace talks, but details remain vague. Meanwhile, Iran released an American citizen, Dena Karari, indicating potential diplomatic gestures, though Iran has not confirmed her release.