Iran-US conflict escalates as US launches airstrikes on Iran's air defences following rocket attacks on US ships in the Strait of Hormuz

Missile sirens wailed across the Middle East overnight as US President Donald Trump resumed strikes on Tehran, escalating tensions between the two nations.

The sudden escalation came hours after Mr Trump vowed to punish Iran following a series of rocket attacks on US ships in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping lane.

The White House confirmed that the US launched airstrikes on Iran's air defences on Thursday morning, with the sound of explosions echoing across the capital, Tehran. Witnesses described the scene as apocalyptic, with the bright flashes of explosions lighting up the night sky.

The move marked a significant shift in US policy, with Mr Trump stating it was a "waste of time" dealing with Iran following the strikes on the ships.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei condemned the US action, describing it as "a clear sign of America's desperation and weakness".

The development has sent shockwaves across the region, with allies such as Kuwait and Bahrain vowing to stand by their commitment to Nato alongside the US. The UK, meanwhile, has expressed concern over the rising tensions.

As the situation continues to unfold, diplomatic efforts are underway to try and broker a ceasefire between the two nations.

Nato Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said the alliance stands in solidarity with its member countries and the US, urging restraint from all parties involved.

The UK Foreign Office said it had expressed its concern to the US and Iran over the escalation, but stopped short of calling for a ceasefire.

The latest developments come as the region teeters on the brink of chaos, with analysts warning that a wider conflict could have devastating consequences for global oil supplies.

The US has long been at odds with Iran over its nuclear programme, and the recent attacks on US ships in the Strait of Hormuz have raised fears of a wider conflict.

As the situation continues to escalate, it remains to be seen whether a lasting peace can be brokered between the two nations.