For thirteen consecutive nights, the United States and Iran have exchanged fire across the Persian Gulf, a rhythm of attack and retaliation that has transformed one of the world's most vital waterways into a theater of war. What began five months ago has outlasted a ceasefire, claimed thousands of lives, and now threatens to slow the arteries of the global economy. Each side speaks of success while denying the other's wounds — a pattern as old as war itself, and as resistant to resolution.
US launches 13th night of Iran strikes; Trump vows Tehran will pay for damages
The five-month conflict has already claimed thousands of lives while fueling global economic slowdown fears; latest strikes caused unspecified casualties according to Iranian claims, though US and Kuwaiti authorities deny reports.