Iran hits out at Gulf neighbours as U.S. presses on with strikes - The Hindu

### US Strikes in Iraq and Syria Continue Amid Tensions

The United States has launched another round of airstrikes against Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq and Syria, marking the 10th night of such strikes. This escalation comes as President Donald Trump warned of retaliation against Iran following the deaths of US soldiers in a rocket attack in Iraq. Iran has reacted strongly to the US actions, accusing its Gulf neighbours of complicity in the strikes.

Analysts predict that the US strikes are unlikely to achieve their intended goal of deterring Iran, citing intelligence reports that suggest the strikes would further embolden anti-US sentiment in the region. The US attacks, which have resulted in civilian casualties, are also said to have deepened hardship and not sparked dissent in Iran's restive south. The situation has significant implications for regional stability, with Iran warning of potential retaliation against US forces in the Middle East.

The US has been carrying out airstrikes against Iranian-backed groups in Iraq since December, reportedly in response to attacks on US targets. The strikes have been largely limited to Iraqi territory, but some have also targeted Syria. As tensions between the US and Iran continue to escalate, the world watches with bated breath for any potential outbreak of conflict.