Trump says Iran strikes won’t last ‘too long’ as US vows to hit again and keep Strait of Hormuz open

Kuwaiti forces intercepted a missile and drone assault from Iran on Thursday, as the country's army engaged hostile missile and drone attacks in response to Iranian aggression, according to a statement on X. Egypt and China called for reduced tensions and escalated conflict in the Gulf and Middle East, urging dialogue and political consensus to address regional security concerns.

Both nations emphasized the importance of good neighborliness, state sovereignty, non-interference in internal affairs, and adherence to the UN Charter and international law.

The Arab League warned that Iranian escalation posed a direct threat to regional security and risked broadening the conflict, urging an immediate halt to all aggression and return to political negotiations for regional stability. US President Donald Trump stated that US military strikes on Iran would not continue "too long," as American forces attacked targets along Iran’s southern coast and Tehran retaliated with missile and drone attacks across the region.

The exchange marked the largest direct clash between the two countries since July, with Iran accusing the US of striking a wedding gathering in Kuhestak, resulting in four deaths and numerous injuries, although these claims have not been independently verified. The US military defended 40 commercial vessels carrying 18 million barrels of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, escorting ships and targeting Iranian capabilities, including air-defense sites, radar systems, maritime assets, mine-laying facilities, communications sites, and anti-ship cruise missiles.