US-Iran Escalation: The biggest exchange since July has reignited fighting across the region, with Washington striking Iran’s southern coast and Tehran hitting US bases in Kuwait, Jordan, Bahrain and Iraq’s Kurdistan; Iran says a US strike hit a wedding in Sirik, killing at least four (including a child) and wounding dozens, while the UN chief urges both sides to return to diplomacy. Kuwait Under Attack: Kuwait’s armed forces say air defenses are intercepting hostile missiles and drones, with explosions blamed on interceptions as Iran vows “no restraint” after US strikes. Hormuz Pressure: Iran’s Strait of Hormuz authority blacklisted 11 more vessels, bringing the list to 56, while the US escorted a wartime record 40 oil tankers through the strait as oil markets react to supply-risk fears. Sanctions and Allies: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that countries helping Iran evade sanctions could face penalties, dismissing claims of an India-Iran trade deal after Modi met Iran’s president. US Posture: The Pentagon restricted access to decades of classified documents amid Iran-war concerns, and reports say US troop deployments may run through 2027 as Trump says further strikes are “ready at any time.” Diplomacy Signals: Australia called for Hormuz to stay open and for de-escalation, while Iran’s leadership says its “new strategy” will undermine US regional presence.