Iran-U.S. Conflict Day 12: Gulf Infrastructure Targeted as Embassy Evacuations Begin

As the conflict between the United States and Iran enters its 12th day, hostilities have expanded significantly across the Persian Gulf. Iran has launched strikes against civilian and economic infrastructure in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, hitting airports, seaports, and oil refineries. These attacks have led to a near-total shutdown of regional airspace and the evacuation of the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh. Tehran has also debuted the use of one-ton warhead missiles, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stating they are prepared for at least six months of sustained high-intensity combat. Energy markets are facing severe disruptions following explosions on two oil tankers in the Persian Gulf and projectile strikes on three additional vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. In response, global powers have begun tapping into emergency oil reserves, with Canada joining a historic international release. Meanwhile, Iranian officials report significant civilian casualties, claiming over 1,300 deaths and damage to nearly 10,000 sites, including residential areas. In Washington, the Trump administration faces mounting pressure from both sides of the aisle. While some Republican lawmakers have described the confrontation as "long overdue," others have expressed concern regarding the lack of a clear endgame. Senator Richard Blumenthal and other legislators have demanded more transparency regarding "Operation Epic Fury" as domestic unrest grows and the White House remains evasive about the long-term strategy. Analysts suggest Iran is currently attempting to deplete U.S. Patriot and THAAD interceptors by targeting vulnerable sites across the Gulf.