Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated after Washington launched new strikes on Tehran following an attack on a container ship in the Strait of Hormuz.Iran responded by announcing the closure of the strategic waterway, raising concerns over regional security, global energy supplies and shipping routes through the Gulf. The UAE, Bahrain and Qatar also issued security updates, with the UAE activating air defence systems to respond to missile and drone threats, while Qatar and Bahrain urged residents to remain in safe locations and follow official guidance.Key developments:Strait of Hormuz tensions riseThe US said Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked a commercial vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, leaving one crew member missing.The IRGC said it fired warning shots at a ship that ignored its instructions and later announced the closure of the strategic waterway “until further notice”.The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said the crew of a damaged container vessel abandoned the ship and moved to a lifeboat.UAE responds to missile and drone threatsThe UAE Ministry of Defence said air defence systems responded to missile and drone threats.Authorities said sounds heard in some areas were caused by UAE systems intercepting ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones.NCEMA said the situation remains stable, with national systems at the highest level of readiness. Residents were urged to follow official updates.Gulf countries intercept missiles amid heightened alertsQatar reports injuries from falling debrisQatar said it intercepted a missile attack, with three people, including a child, injured by falling debris from interception operations.Kuwait and Bahrain intercept hostile aerial targetsBahrain activated alarm sirens and advised residents to move to safe locations following the reported threat.Kuwait said its armed forces intercepted hostile aerial targets within the country’s airspace and urged residents to follow official safety instructionsOman reports drone attackOman said drone attacks targeted sites in Musandam Governorate and confirmed measures were being taken to protect residents and national security.One Indian missing after Oman vessel attackIndia said 10 of the 11 Indian nationals aboard the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy, attacked off Oman, have been rescued. One Indian national remains missing. The Indian Embassy in Oman is coordinating with Omani authorities in the search and rescue operation.Jordan reports missile strikesJordan’s Armed Forces said three missiles launched from Iran landed inside the Kingdom, causing no casualties or significant damage.Iran reports second vessel strikeIran’s Revolutionary Guards said they struck a second vessel in the Strait of Hormuz and claimed they also targeted a US base in Qatar.Diplomatic efforts continueOman is working on proposals to manage shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, while Qatar and other mediators are supporting efforts to restart US-Iran talks.Why it matters for UAE residentsAny prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could affect regional security, shipping routes, energy markets and global oil prices, with potential impacts across the Gulf.