Iran's IRGC said it struck the U.S. base that launched Thursday's strikes, warning future responses will be more decisive. No details on location or method. The claim follows Wednesday U.S. self‑defence attacks in southern Iran that downed four attack drones over the Strait of Hormuz and hit a drone control station in Bandar Abbas, and heightened tensions.

Kuwait’s military reported intercepting hostile drones and missiles that morning, underscoring the regional spill‑over. Washington maintains five bases in the Gulf state, a fact that raises questions about force protection and logistics costs. Meanwhile, Treasury added Iran’s newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority to its sanctions list, labeling it an extortion scheme and warning firms against cooperation significantly.

Energy markets reacted sharply; Brent crude jumped nearly 4 % to about $96 a barrel, while U.S. WTI rose above $91. The surge reflects investor anxiety over disrupted oil flows through the Hormuz chokepoint. Asian shares fell 0.5 % as risk rose. The latest exchange of fire deepens doubts about a swift reopening of the strait and could pressure insurers.