US resumes strikes after Iran fires missiles at forces in region
Why it matters: Brent crude jumped 7.9% to $90.74 a barrel as the renewed fighting rattled Gulf shipping and energy markets.
The United States resumed strikes on Iranian targets Wednesday night after Iran launched multiple ballistic missiles at American forces in the Middle East, all of which were intercepted, according to U.S. Central Command. Jordan's military said it shot down five missiles launched from Iran. The new attacks ended a brief pause in fighting that Washington had allowed to give diplomacy room. The broader conflict has also pulled in regional allies: U.S. and Saudi forces struck Iran-backed militias in Iraq after attacks on Saudi oil facilities and pipeline infrastructure. The latest escalation has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and pushed oil prices sharply higher.