US and Iran Trade Strikes for Eighth Night as Conflict Escalates

The United States has carried out an eighth straight night of airstrikes against Iran, targeting military sites in the country's south. US Central Command said the strikes hit coastal surveillance, air defense, missile storage, and drone facilities. The attacks also aimed at units of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) blamed for killing two US soldiers in Jordan last week. Iran responded by launching drone attacks on US military facilities in Kuwait and Bahrain. Kuwaiti forces said they were intercepting hostile missiles and drones. Bahrain sounded air raid sirens multiple times. The IRGC also claimed to have shot down a US drone over Ahvaz, Iran. The latest US strikes appeared less intense than previous nights, according to reports. However, they continued to damage civilian infrastructure, including bridges, roads, and a desalination plant that cut off water to about 10,000 people. Schools postponed exams and some hospitals were evacuated. A senior Iranian commander warned of a "decisive and devastating response" to any aggression. The conflict has raised concerns about water security in the Gulf, where desalination plants provide most drinking water. Kuwait accused Iran of attacking a power and desalination plant, leading residents to stockpile supplies. The US State Department urged Americans worldwide to exercise caution due to rising tensions.