US and Iran launch new strikes, as Kuwait says airport hit by Iranian drones

June 3, 2026

The U.S. military conducted self-defense strikes against Iranian military facilities on Qeshm Island after Iran launched ballistic missiles and drones targeting Kuwait, Bahrain, and maritime vessels in the Gulf region. The Iranian attacks resulted in one fatality and over 60 injuries in Kuwait, with damage to the international airport and diplomatic facilities. These military exchanges occurred amid stalled ceasefire negotiations between Washington and Tehran, with disagreements over terms including uranium removal and nuclear program discussions.

Who is affected

One person killed and more than 60 injured in Kuwait
Civilian mariners transiting regional waters in the Gulf
Kuwait's international airport and diplomatic missions (damaged infrastructure)
Ships attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz
Crew of the Botswana-flagged M/T oil tanker (vessel disabled by U.S. military)
U.S. military personnel at bases in Kuwait and Bahrain
Iran's military ground control station on Qeshm Island
Gulf countries including Kuwait and Bahrain

What action is being taken

The U.S. military is enforcing a naval blockade on the Strait of Hormuz (began April 13)
The U.S. is conducting strikes on Iranian military targets
The U.S. military is shooting down Iranian ballistic missiles and drones
Iran is launching missile and drone attacks against U.S. bases and targets in Kuwait and Bahrain
Ceasefire negotiations between the U.S. and Iran are ongoing (though currently stalled)

Why it matters

This conflict represents a dangerous escalation in U.S.-Iran tensions with direct attacks causing civilian casualties and threatening critical global shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for international oil transportation. The military confrontation is occurring simultaneously with diplomatic efforts, creating uncertainty about whether the situation will resolve peacefully or deteriorate further into broader regional conflict. The stalled negotiations over nuclear program limitations and sanctions relief indicate fundamental disagreements that could prolong hostilities and destabilize the entire Middle East region.

What's next

President Trump indicated he would potentially meet with Ayatollah Khamenei "at some point, depending on how it all works out"
Ceasefire negotiations are expected to continue, though currently stalled over disagreements regarding the Strait of Hormuz, uranium removal, and nuclear program framework
The U.S. is seeking condition-based sanctions relief tied to Iran's nuclear program

Read full article from source: BBC