U.S.-Iran Conflict Escalates as Airstrikes Hit Nuclear Plant Perimeter

The brief ceasefire between the United States and Iran has collapsed following a series of significant military escalations. President Trump declared the 60-day peace deal "over" after authorizing 90 airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure over a 48-hour period. In a notable escalation, U.S. munitions targeted the perimeter of the Bushehr civilian nuclear plant. While the U.S. maintains it is degrading logistics and military C2 infrastructure, Tehran has labeled the strikes an "overt act of aggression" and reported at least 14 civilian fatalities. Regional stability has deteriorated rapidly as Iran launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks against U.S. military installations in Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Jordan’s defense forces confirmed the interception of eight missiles passing through its airspace. Meanwhile, Israel has signaled its readiness to intervene directly, and Iran has once again threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz to all maritime traffic should attacks continue. Economically, the conflict has triggered a 6% spike in global oil prices, which now sit above $78 per barrel. The Trump administration has moved to further squeeze Tehran by reimposing strict sanctions on oil sales. Despite the heavy combat operations, a diplomatic back-channel remains active; U.S. officials confirmed that technical nuclear negotiations are continuing, suggesting a "dual-track" strategy of military pressure combined with persistent diplomatic engagement.