Morning update

Morning update Good morning Middle East Eye readers,  The conflict widened overnight after US forces struck targets on Iran’s Qeshm Island, prompting Iranian retaliatory attacks against US-linked military sites in the Gulf. Despite the escalation, Washington and Tehran both signalled that diplomatic contacts remain ongoing, while US-backed talks between Lebanon and Israel continue to advance. Here are the latest developments:  US Central Command says it carried out “self-defence” strikes on Iran’s Qeshm Island, targeting radar and communications infrastructure. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard says it responded with missile and drone attacks against US military targets in the region, calling the operation a warning to Washington. Kuwait says drones and missiles entered its airspace, with air defences intercepting incoming threats; reports indicate damage at an airport passenger terminal. Bahrain activated warning sirens amid reported aerial threats, while US and Bahraini forces say incoming missiles were intercepted. Centcom says Iranian missile and drone attacks failed to hit their intended targets and did not cause significant damage. Trump rejects suggestions that negotiations have stalled, saying contacts with Tehran have continued without interruption. US officials say Lebanon-Israel negotiations are making progress towards a broader agreement aimed at restoring stability along the border. Israeli attacks in Lebanon killed at least seven people, including a paramedic, as cross-border fighting persisted. Brent crude moved closer to $100 a barrel as investors weighed the risk of further escalation across the Gulf and wider region.

Original source: Middle East Eye