Military escalation across the Middle East is intensifying as Iran and Israel exchange strikes, with tensions spilling into Gulf states and Jordan, prompting a firm political response from Egypt.
Egypt’s House of Representatives and Senate said in a joint statement that Iranian attacks on Gulf states and Jordan constitute a blatant violation of sovereignty and a direct threat to regional stability, as well as a breach of international law.
The statement stressed that the developments represent a dangerous escalation affecting the entire Arab security system, reaffirming Egypt’s full solidarity with Gulf countries and Jordan. It warned that any threat to their security directly impacts Egypt’s national interests.
Lawmakers also cautioned against serious economic repercussions should tensions disrupt strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting potential risks to global trade, energy markets, and food supply chains.
On the ground, Yemen’s Houthi movement said it launched ballistic missiles toward southern Israel for the first time, while Israeli media reported sirens in several southern cities and the interception of at least one missile.
Israel, in turn, said it struck Iranian-linked targets in Tehran, as U.S. media reported that United States is considering deploying the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush to the region.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed it shot down a U.S. MQ-9 drone and damaged an F-16 fighter jet, while reports indicated that more than 20 U.S. personnel were injured in a previous attack on a base in Saudi Arabia, though no official confirmation has been issued.
In Israel, emergency services reported casualties after an Iranian missile struck near Jerusalem, causing injuries and property damage.
The conflict has also impacted Gulf states, with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait reporting interceptions of missiles and drones, alongside some infrastructure damage.
Jordan’s military said it intercepted dozens of projectiles, noting that hundreds have targeted its territory since the escalation began, resulting in injuries and material damage.
Shipping giant Maersk said it temporarily halted operations at Port of Salalah following a security incident, underscoring mounting risks to maritime trade.
International officials also raised concerns over nuclear safety after reported strikes near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, though no radiation leaks have been detected.
Politically, Iran has signalled potential escalation steps, including discussions on withdrawing from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, while maintaining what it describes as its right to retaliate.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said most U.S. military objectives in Iran had been achieved, adding that Washington does not intend to remain engaged in the conflict over the long term.
