Published July 20th, 2026 - 02:40 GMT
Highlights
In a separate maritime incident, Reuters, citing maritime security officials, reported that a Greek cargo ship caught fire after being struck by an unidentified projectile near the Strait of Hormuz
ALBAWABA- Iran’s Fars News Agency reported explosions in the city of Shiraz on Monday, with initial reports indicating that an “enemy” target had been struck inside the city. The exact nature of the incident, the target involved, and the extent of any damage remain unclear.At the same time, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that it had launched attacks against US military forces and facilities in Bahrain and Kuwait. Kuwait’s military confirmed that its air defense systems were activated to counter missile and drone threats, describing the attacks as Iranian aggression.In a separate maritime incident, Reuters, citing maritime security officials, reported that a Greek cargo ship caught fire after being struck by an unidentified projectile near the Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy and shipping route.The developments mark a significant escalation in the confrontation between Iran and the United States, which has intensified following a series of US strikes on Iranian territory and Tehran’s retaliatory missile and drone attacks against US forces and allied targets across the Gulf region.The latest escalation has heightened concerns over the security of vital energy and commercial shipping routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial portion of global oil supplies passes. Any prolonged disruption in the region could have major consequences for international energy markets, maritime trade, and regional stability.As both sides continue exchanging military threats and strikes, fears are growing that the conflict could expand further, drawing in additional Gulf states and creating a wider regional crisis, with the Houthis' announcement of banning Saudi ports on the Red Sea.
