The conflict between the United States and Iran intensified on Wednesday after Iranian state media reported that 11 people were killed in recent U.S. strikes, including attacks in Khuzestan province. Iran also stated that four members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were killed in a separate strike in Kermanshah. In response, Tehran vowed severe retaliation and continued military operations targeting American interests across the region, marking another escalation in the ongoing confrontation.

The latest developments have expanded the conflict beyond direct military targets, affecting key regional infrastructure and international shipping. Saudi Arabia’s national shipping company confirmed that two Filipino crew members were killed after a Saudi oil tanker was struck in the Strait of Hormuz, while Kuwait reported that an Iranian drone hit a residential complex in the capital, causing a fire but no casualties. Shipping activity through the Strait of Hormuz has declined amid growing security concerns, and several LNG cargoes have been transferred outside the strategic waterway to reduce risks.

The escalating tensions have also impacted global financial markets and energy prices. Brent crude oil climbed above 95 dollars per barrel, while WTI crude also recorded gains as fears of supply disruptions increased. Indian stock markets reacted negatively, with the Sensex and Nifty falling sharply in early trade. According to reports, the current escalation follows recent U.S. strikes on Iranian targets, after which Iran launched attacks on American military interests in the region, raising concerns that the conflict could widen further across West Asia.