Iran hits Gulf refineries as Trump warns U.S. will attack Iranian bridges, power plants

Key Points:

• Air defense systems in Israel, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia responded to Iranian drone and missile attacks, which set fire to at least two refineries, including Kuwait's largest oil refinery, Mina Al-Ahmadi.
• The conflict escalated with U.S. President Trump threatening further strikes on Iranian infrastructure such as bridges and power plants, while Iran retaliated by destroying a major bridge near Tehran and threatening attacks on Gulf region bridges.
• Diplomatic talks involving 40 countries, excluding the U.S. and Israel, failed to reach an agreement on measures to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked, causing significant disruptions to global oil, gas, and fertilizer supplies.
• Investigative group Bellingcat reported that the UAE downplayed or mischaracterized several Iranian drone attacks within its territory, including incidents at fuel storage facilities and Dubai's port, contradicting official statements.
• The ongoing conflict has led to increased oil prices, with Brent crude rising nearly 8% to over $109 per barrel, and concerns remain over the security of global shipping routes and the welfare of thousands of sailors stranded in the Strait of Hormuz.