Tensions in the Gulf region intensified as the United States and Iran continued retaliatory strikes on Saturday. US Central Command launched another round of attacks targeting Iranian military infrastructure, marking the seventh consecutive night of action. Iran responded with strikes against neighboring Gulf states, notably damaging a vital water desalination plant in Kuwait. The Gulf Cooperation Council strongly condemned these attacks, specifically labeling strikes on civilian sites as “war crimes.” The escalating conflict centers around control of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Further escalation threatens regional stability and global energy supplies. These recent developments signal a dangerous turn in the long-running rivalry between Washington and Tehran.